NM-ABC Program

Conversations about Youth Mental Health in New Mexico

Health EN ↓ 5 episodes

New Mexico simply doesn’t have enough youth mental health specialists, which means that primary care providers and school staff are often asked to address youth mental health needs. Join the conversation as we discuss some of the best practices and new ideas in mental health services for children and adolescents in NM. Listen as we talk with medical providers, behavioral health specialists, policy makers, parents/caregivers, young people and more. New Mexico has many extraordinary people, organizations and communities who are working hard to make a difference for children and teens in our stat...

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NM-ABC Program

Episodes

Conversation with Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists: Tips for Primary Care Providers Using Medications to Treat Pediatric Mental/Behavioral Health Needs 24.04.2026 37:18

In this podcast, we hear from Amy Rouse MD and Olivia Shadid MD (UNM child and adolescent psychiatrists) who share some of their top tips for primary care providers across New Mexico who are treating pediatric patients with mental/behavioral health needs. They share clinical pearls and medication management considerations that are “beyond the basics” for youth struggling with depression, anxiety,...

Conversation with Carmen Meyer: a Unique Perspective on Youth Mental Health Care in New Mexico 22.01.2026 38:18

In this podcast, Carmen Meyer (psych nurse, managed care, NM Ped Society Exec Director) shares what she sees happening in New Mexico related to youth mental health care, and some ideas about where we need to go in the future. Carmen’s various previous and current roles gives her a valuable perspective about how systems can work together to best serve youth (and providers) across New Mexico. Resour...

Conversation with an Advocate: Making a Difference for Youth with Mental Health Needs in New Mexico 30.10.2025 31:19

In this podcast, Gay Finlayson (parent, advocate, professional) reflects about her journey advocating for pediatric mental health services. She shares tips for others who want to make a difference, and reflects about the changes she’s witnessed in New Mexico. She also emphasizes the need to broaden our awareness of how neurodevelopmental disorders and behavioral health concerns overlap, so that sy...

Conversation with Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino: Reflecting on NM's Behavioral Health System Changes 03.09.2025 44:22

In this podcast, former State Senator Jerry Ortiz y Pino reflects about where NM has been--and where it's going--with behavioral health services. During this huge system reorganization in our state, it is helpful to think about how systems can work more collaboratively and bring an informed approach to policy and funding decisions. Sen. Ortiz y Pino shares his perspective as someone who has been i...

Conversation with a Pediatrician: Partnering with Families To Manage Mental Health Conditions 23.07.2025 44:14

In this podcast, local pediatrician Dr. Karen Walsh joins us to discuss how healthcare providers can effectively partner with families to manage youth mental health conditions in primary care settings. What works and what doesn't work? What are some pitfalls to watch out for? Listen in to a conversation between a pediatrician and a parent as they reflect on this important relationship. Resources:...