South Carolina legislators to speak at NAMI statewide Mental Health Conference

NAMI South Carolina announced the participation of three influential state lawmakers in its upcoming 2025 Annual Mental Health Conference: Unity in the Community: Mental Health for All. The event will take place on September 4, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Richland Two Institute of Innovation (R2i2) in Columbia, SC.

Senator Danny Verdin, Representative Jermaine Johnson, and Representative Brandon Newton will take the stage for a special legislative session focused on the future of mental health policy and support systems across South Carolina. Their presence marks a significant moment in the state’s growing commitment to improving mental health outcomes and access to care.

“Bringing lawmakers to the table is key to turning advocacy into action,” said Bill Lindsey, Executive Director of NAMI South Carolina. “We’re honored to welcome these leaders and open up real conversations about legislation that can positively impact individuals and families living with mental illness.”

This year’s conference will feature a robust lineup of offerings, including 5.5 continuing education hours for counselors, therapists, EMS professionals, and social workers, as well as 8 credit hours approved for law enforcement. Attendees can also look forward to a full day of interactive workshops and expert-led panels, featuring mental health professionals, individuals with lived experience, and community advocates. In addition, a limited number of scholarships are available for individuals living with a mental illness.

The conference is generously supported by Title Sponsor: Johnson & Johnson, along with Neurocrine Biosciences, and other valued sponsors including Trusted Results Therapy Group, Disability Rights SC, Humana, Three Rivers Midlands, Lighthouse Behavioral Health Hospital, and New Hope Treatment Centers.

To register or learn more, visit www.namisc.org/conference