Discovery to Recovery Symposium - Friday, October 17, 2025

Discovery to Recovery Symposium

Join us for the free 2nd Annual Discovery to Recovery Symposium on Substance Use Disorder! A full breakfast will be provided, along with refreshments during the break.

Theme

Understanding Childhood Trauma, Brain Development and its connection to Substance Use.

Date, Time & Location

Friday, October 17

8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Drury Conference Center
3351 Percy Drive
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

Key Questions to Explore

  • What chemical and structural changes occur in a child’s brain after trauma?
  • How does early trauma affect areas of the brain related to emotion, impulse control, and reward systems?
  • How do these changes increase the risk of substance use in adolescence?
  • What is the connection to long-term substance use and addiction?
  • How can understanding brain development across the lifespan improve prevention and treatment efforts?
  • What role can schools, healthcare, behavioral health, and law enforcement play in early support and intervention?

Confirmed Speakers

  • Dr. Fred Rottnek, MD, MAHCM: Professor and Director of Community Medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Dr. Rottnek specializes in addiction medicine and trauma-informed care, with extensive experience in community and correctional healthcare.
  • Rachel Jones, LPC: Director of Trauma Services at the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Rachel leads statewide efforts to advance trauma-informed care and strengthen behavioral health services.

Register for the Symposium

Sorry, registrations for the Discovery to Recovery Symposium have closed.