Learning & Connection at Yesterday’s Mental Health CEU Luncheon

Yesterday we had the joy of hosting another Central Ohio Mental Health Professionals CEU Luncheon, and it was everything we hoped it would be—an afternoon of learning, connection, and encouragement for the counseling community.

The room was filled with therapists, nurses, and other helping professionals who carved time out of their busy schedules to come together for one purpose: to grow, both individually and collectively. There was a buzz of conversation even before the program began, as colleagues greeted each other, exchanged stories, and introduced themselves to new faces. That energy carried through the entire event.

A Fresh Take on Functional Medicine

Our guest speaker, Stacey Molle, ACNS-BC, FNP, PMHNP, shared a thought-provoking presentation titled “Woo or True? The Role of Functional Medicine in Mental Health Care.” Stacey’s dual background in both family practice and psychiatric mental health gave her a unique lens for bridging traditional medical models with holistic approaches. She invited us to wrestle with big questions: How do we balance evidence-based practices with emerging integrative methods? How can we broaden the way we look at wellness without losing clinical grounding?

What made Stacey’s talk so engaging was not just the information itself, but the way she encouraged dialogue. Attendees were leaning in, jotting notes, and asking thoughtful questions. It wasn’t just a lecture—it felt like a real conversation that will ripple back into therapy rooms, hospitals, and private practices across our community.

Food, Fellowship, and CEUs

Of course, no luncheon is complete without the chance to share a meal. Over lunch, conversations naturally deepened—discussions moved from clinical techniques to personal stories, challenges, and encouragement. Many of us know how isolating this profession can feel at times, and these small, face-to-face moments of connection are just as valuable as the CEUs we earn.

Why It Felt Like a Success

The success of this luncheon wasn’t measured only by the number of CEUs handed out or the plates cleared away. It was measured by the smiles in the room, the business cards exchanged, the relief on people’s faces as they realized they’re not alone in their struggles, and the excitement of learning something new to bring back to their clients.

What stood out most to me was the spirit of collaboration that emerged—therapists, nurses, and mental health professionals from different walks of life sitting together, sharing ideas, and reminding one another that we are stronger when we support each other.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on yesterday, I’m grateful—for Stacey’s wisdom, for the colleagues who showed up, and for the simple but powerful reminder that professional growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community.

I’m already looking forward to our next luncheon and the opportunity to continue building this network of encouragement and knowledge across Central Ohio. If you missed this one, I hope you’ll join us next time.

Don't miss out on future luncheons!