福利片国产

SMART Center

SMART Connections

Connections & Updates

The SMART Center is actively engaged in research, training, and community partnerships that expand access to mental health services and strengthen the well-being of the communities we serve. This page highlights our latest updates, initiatives, collaborations, and opportunities to stay connected with our work.
 

馃摪 News & Announcements

Stay informed about the latest developments at the SMART Center, including program growth, new initiatives, and community impact.

  • Program and service updates
  • New partnerships and collaborations
  • Grant funding and project announcements
  • Staff achievements and recognitions

 

CURRENT NEWS

 

  • Big news from UofM SMART! The 福利片国产 of Memphis ICHC Clinic has officially opened its Play Therapy Education, Training, and Research Center鈥攁n innovative, university-based center that is the only program of its kind in Memphis, dedicated to advancing high-quality play therapy services, training, and research. To learn more about the Play Therapy Education, Training, and Research Center visit our website: Play Therapy Education, Training, and Research Center.
  • Building on this exciting milestone, the clinic is now offering Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), two highly effective, evidence-based approaches that help strengthen family relationships, support children鈥檚 emotional development, and promote healing from trauma. With these expanded services, UofM SMART is proud to provide leading-edge care for children and families in our community.
  • How we started:
馃帣SMART Center Podcast & Media

SMART Connections: Hosted by Dr. Susan Elswick and SMART Center Staff

Explore insights, discussions, and expert perspectives from the SMART Center team and its partners through SMART Connections, a dynamic podcast designed to support those working with children and families.

SMART Connections empowers teachers, mental health clinicians, and caregivers with fresh insights and practical strategies to support the social, emotional, and mental well-being of children from Pre-K through 12th grade. Developed in partnership with Dr. Susan Elswick, Director of the 福利片国产 of Memphis SMART Center, the podcast delivers expert knowledge in an accessible, conversational format.

Each episode explores timely topics, best practices, and hands-on tools that can be applied in real-world settings鈥攚hether in the classroom, in the clinic, or at home.

Podcast content includes:

  • Episodes focused on key mental health topics
  • Interviews with clinicians, researchers, and community leaders
  • Educational discussions centered on trauma-informed care and prevention
  • Practical strategies and tools to support children鈥檚 emotional and behavioral well-being

SMART Connections provides meaningful, real-world guidance to help adults make a lasting impact and support children in thriving across environments.

馃憠 Listen Now | Explore Episodes

Hosted by: Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
SMART Center Team and Community Partners
Learn the importance of early intervention in supporting children鈥檚 developmental, emotional, and behavioral needs. This episode explores how timely identification and access to services can improve long-term outcomes, along with practical strategies for engaging families and supporting young children across home, school, and clinical settings.

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
SMART Center Clinical Team
Discover how visual schedules can create structure, reduce anxiety, and support transitions for children. This episode highlights practical ways educators and caregivers can use visual tools to improve behavior, independence, and daily routines.

 

 

Hosted by: Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring: SMART Center Clinical Team
Explore how calming corners can be used to help children regulate emotions and manage stress. This episode provides guidance on setting up effective calming spaces and teaching children how to use them as part of emotional regulation strategies.

 

Episode 4-Adverse Childhood Experiences

Hosted by: Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring: Trauma-Informed Care Specialists
Gain a deeper understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their impact on child development, behavior, and long-term health. This episode discusses trauma-informed approaches and strategies to support resilience and recovery.

 

Episode 5- Exploration of Culture: Communal Conversation with Dr. Gregory Washington and Theresa Okwumabua (3 Part Series)

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Dr. Gregory Washington and Dr. Theresa Okwumabua

Learn strategies for creating inclusive, culturally responsive environments in schools, clinics, and communities.

 

Discover how a strengths-based, positive psychology approach can support children鈥檚 emotional well-being and resilience. This episode highlights strategies for fostering optimism, confidence, and positive development

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
SMART Center Leadership Team
Learn about the SMART Center鈥檚 mission, services, and unique approach to integrating research, training, and clinical care. This episode provides an inside look at how the center supports children, families, and communities.

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Developmental Services Professionals
Gain insight into supporting children with developmental disabilities in educational and clinical settings. This episode focuses on awareness, inclusion, and strategies to promote success and engagement

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Community & Program Partners
Explore how self-esteem impacts children鈥檚 confidence and mental health. This episode highlights tools and programs designed to build self-worth and promote healthy development.

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Program Partners
Learn about strengths-based initiatives that empower children to recognize their abilities and build resilience. This episode explores how positive identity development supports long-term success.

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Mental Health Advocates and Clinicians
Discuss the importance of increasing mental health awareness in schools, families, and communities. This episode provides practical ways to reduce stigma and promote early support for children and adolescents.

 

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Clinical and Crisis Intervention Specialists
Learn effective verbal de-escalation techniques for managing challenging behaviors and crisis situations. This episode provides practical tools to help professionals and caregivers respond safely and confidently.

 

Episode 13-Seasonal Depression-

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Licensed Clinicians
Explore how seasonal changes can impact mood and emotional well-being. This episode discusses symptoms, risk factors, and practical strategies to support children and families during difficult seasonal transitions

 

Episode 14-Anxiety Disorders-

Hosted by:Dr. Susan Elswick
Featuring:
Clinical Experts in Anxiety and Trauma
Gain insight into recognizing and supporting children with anxiety disorders. This episode covers common signs, coping strategies, and evidence-based approaches to help children manage anxiety effectively.

SMART Connections鈾alk the Path Podcasts: 

The SMART Center is proud to partner with the 福利片国产 of Tennessee鈥揔noxville and the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to offer a specialized podcast series through the Pathways to Behavioral Health Careers Project.

This initiative is designed to educate and inspire high school students by introducing them to the wide range of career opportunities within the behavioral health field. Through engaging and accessible content, students gain insight into the roles, responsibilities, and day-to-day experiences of behavioral health professionals, as well as the educational pathways needed to pursue these careers.

By highlighting the meaningful impact behavioral health professionals have on individuals and communities, this project encourages students to explore careers in the field and supports the development of a stronger, more prepared workforce鈥攃ontributing to a healthier future for Tennessee.


Monthly Newsletter:

Stay connected with everything happening at the SMART Center by exploring our monthly newsletter. Each edition features updates on our services, highlights from upcoming community events, and practical mental health tips you can apply in your everyday life.

Our newsletter is an easy and engaging way to stay informed, discover new resources, and find inspiration to support your own well-being and the well-being of those around you.

馃憠 Explore the latest edition and see what鈥檚 new this month.

January 2026 English

January 2026 Spanish

February 2026 English

February 2026 Spanish

March 2026 English

March 2026 Spanish

April 2026 English

April 2026 Spanish

Archived Newsletters