Mental health policies are shaped at multiple levels of government—from state legislatures and governors to Congress and the President. These decisions influence funding, access to care, insurance coverage, crisis response systems, and nationwide workforce capacity.
This presentation equips participants with practical tools to advocate for mental health across state and federal systems, including how to communicate effectively with legislators, governors’ offices, members of Congress, and executive agencies. The course emphasizes respectful, nonpartisan engagement grounded in lived experience, data, and shared values.
Participants will leave with clear, realistic strategies for influencing policy without needing political expertise. Participants will learn how to:
Understand how mental health policy is shaped at the state and federal level
Distinguish the roles of legislators, governors, Congress, and the President
Identify key mental health issues addressed through laws, budgets, and executive action
Communicate effectively with elected officials and their staff across all levels
Use lived experience and data ethically to inform policy discussions
Take actionable advocacy steps that are appropriate, safe, and sustainable
Meet the Instructor: Amber Rand is a licensed mental health counselor and seasoned behavioral health leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing trauma informed, recovery-oriented care across Iowa and beyond. As an Instructor for Mindspring Mental Health Alliance, she brings deep expertise in community and workplace mental health education, creating interactive, evidence-based learning experiences that promote understanding, empathy, and resilience.