Nic Sheff, author, recovering addict and subject of the movie “Beautiful Boy” will be the keynote speaker at Harford County’s 15th Annual Addiction and Recovery Symposium on Thursday, June 27 at Bel Air High School. Sheff will share his struggle with substance abuse disorder, which was deeply rooted in mental illness; his inspiring journey to recovery, and the impact of his addiction on his family. The movie “Beautiful Boy” is based on Nic’s New York Times bestselling memoir, “Tweak: Growing Up on Methamphetamines,” and his father’s bestseller of the same title. This major motion picture stars Timothee Chalamet as Nic, and Steve Carell as his father, David.
The exciting symposium lineup also features Cortney Lovell, an international leader in recovery coaching; Kristine Hitchens Ph.D., LCSW-C, LCADC, CCDC, NBCCH, who will present on trauma’s impact before, during and after addiction, and expert panel discussions on substance-exposed newborns and recovery courts.
The Harford County Office of Drug Control Policy holds this yearly symposium to educate professionals and the public on issues surrounding addiction, treatment and recovery. The free conference runs from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and offers continuing education credits for professionals in the fields of addiction, professional counseling, social work, and emergency services. The symposium is also an outstanding opportunity for the public to learn more about addiction and recovery resources in the community, gain greater understanding about this deadly brain disease, and enjoy inspiring, nationally renowned speakers.
This year’s focus on the impact of addiction on the family and expansion of continuing education to other professional groups are efforts to encourage broader attendance; to draw mental health and treatment professionals to Harford County, and to foster collaboration between treatment providers, the recovery community, and the public. Attendees will benefit from learning the latest developments, approaches and techniques in the fields of prevention and recovery. Throughout the day, participants are also able to visit and network with over 25 different exhibitors.
“This symposium is an important component of Harford County’s awareness strategy,” said Harford County Executive Barry Glassman. “We truly appreciate the tremendous support from our sponsors, partners and speakers.”
The symposium is held in partnership with Harford County Public Schools and sponsored by APGFCU, Ashley Addiction Treatment, Delphi Behavioral Health Group, Klein’s ShopRite, and the Harford County Local Management Board.
Registration is required. To register, sponsor, or inquire about being a vendor, visit www.harfordcountymd.gov/ODCP .
