Skip to main content
Continuing Education - Continuing Professional Development for Today's Healthcare Professionals

38th Psychatric Pharmacotherapy Update - October 22-23, 2026


 
2026 Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update
Click here to Register Now for the Psychiatric PharmacotherapyThe University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy Center for Continuing Pharmacy Development
Dates: Thursday, Oct. 22 – Friday, Oct. 23, 2026
Location: Austin, Texas | Live Online Broadcast | On-Demand
 

Overview
 
Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update logoThe 2026 Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update offers 14+ hours of high-level, evidence-based continuing education (CPE, CME, CNE, APA, and Social Work). This interprofessional seminar focuses on "Serious Science," providing clinicians with the most rigorous and timely data to improve the quality of care for patients with mental health disorders.
 
Our 2026 curriculum explores the frontiers of neuropsychiatry, moving beyond traditional boundaries to investigate the biological, technological, and systemic factors impacting modern practice. All sessions are recorded and will be released in our on-demand video library in late November.
 

2026 Clinical Pillars
 
This year's program features a diverse range of topics curated for the practicing clinician:
  • Emerging Science & Technology: Explore the Role of Inflammation in psychiatric disorders, the integration of AI in Mental Health, and the "missing piece" of Nutritional Psychiatry.
  • Complex Management: Deep dives into the Consensus Taskforce on Psychotropic Polypharmacy, the management of Acute Aggression and Agitation in Serious Mental Illness (SMI), and strategies for Disruptive Behaviors in ADHD.
  • Lifespan & Hormonal Health: Expert sessions on Hormonal Transitions and Mental Health, as well as specialized considerations for the Geriatric Population, including mood disorders and the management of Schizophrenia in older adults.
  • Pharmacotherapeutic Frontiers: Updates on Buprenorphine for chronic pain and opioid dependence, the evolving role of GLP-1 Therapies from metabolic health to substance use disorders, and a critical look at Psychopharmacology Facts vs. Myths.
 

Target Audience
 
This seminar is designed for pharmacists, psychiatrists, physicians, nurses, physician assistants, psychologists, and social workers who specialize in or have an interest in neuropsychiatric disorders and wish to master the latest clinical advances.
 

The CPD Intensive
Advancing Professional Practice & BPS Recertification
 
The 2026 update features an expanded CPD Intensive, a structured pathway for board-certified pharmacists and dedicated clinicians to engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and additional 10 hours of CPE (pharmacy only) credit.  This will take place on Wednesday evening, Oct 21, before the start of the regular program, for in-person and live online broadcast attendees ONLY.  Separate registration will be required, but free for paid registrants of the 2026 Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update.  More information will be sent out in late summer to registrants.  For more information on UT Austin's CPD Intensives, click here to view the CPD website. 
 
Participants will engage in specialized planning exercises to develop personalized professional goals and SMART objectives. This intensive includes pre-conference reflections and follow-up evaluations throughout the year to facilitate the long-term implementation of clinical knowledge. Eligible participants can earn additional credits toward professional advancement and Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) recertification.
 

Accessing the Seminar
  • Central Hub: Registrants will access all seminar content, Zoom feeds, and on-demand sessions directly through this portal.
  • Flexibility: Your registration provides a seamless experience whether you are joining us in Austin, watching the live broadcast, or catching up via the on-demand library this winter.
  • Credentials: You must be logged into your account to access materials and claim credit. We recommend keeping your login details readily available.
 
Invest in the science of care. Elevate your practice.
 
Hook ’em.
 

Date: Oct 22, 2026 08:00 AM - Oct 23, 2026 05:00 AM

Fee

$595.00

CE Hours

17.50

CE Units

1.750

Registration closes on Oct 24, 2026 12:00 AM

Activity Type

Knowledge

 

Summer BONUS Webinar

2026 Psychotropic New Drug Update 1
   

NEW for 2026: Live Broadcast Webinar Session

Welcome to a premier interprofessional gathering of mental health leaders! We are thrilled to have you join us for a dedicated exploration of advanced psychiatric pharmacotherapy.

This year we are adding FREE addtional BONUS CE webinars.  These sessions provide early content.  Both webinars will be recorded for later viewing as well.  

Hook 'em!


Webinar Instructions
 
How to Tune In
Live Zoom links will be posted right here on this tab the week of the event. We will also send these links directly to your inbox for an easy "click and watch" experience.
 

 
2026 Psychotropic New Drug Update 1
This program will be a bonus webinar held during July 2026 with the final date still TBD
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Describe the pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, therapeutic uses, and dosing of selected psychiatric drugs recently marketed as well as drugs approaching the market.
  • Review pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, therapeutic uses, and dosing of selected psychiatric drugs that have been released in the past five years.
 

Faculty
 
Stephen R. Saklad, Pharm.D., BCPP
Clinical Professor (Retired)
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy  
Division of Pharmacotherapy, UT Health San Antonio, Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine
Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center  
 
Dr. Saklad is a Clinical Professor at The University of Texas College of Pharmacy and a Pharmacist at San Antonio State Hospital since 1979. He has focused his career on clinical care, teaching, and research to improve the quality of life and function in the seriously and persistently mentally ill. He helped to create a clinical research unit at San Antonio State Hospital and developed the first websites for The University of Texas College of Pharmacy and the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP). He is the Director of the University of Texas Psychiatric Pharmacy Program in San Antonio, having trained over 70 advanced practice pharmacists in psychiatric pharmacy. Dr. Saklad is a Founding Member of CPNP, served on the CPNP Board of Directors, and was the founding senior editor of their peer-reviewed journal, the Mental Health Clinician. He has published articles and presented to many groups around the country on a variety of pharmacy and mental health-related topics. He is a principal or co-investigator for several studies of the efficacy and adverse effects of Phase II, III, and IV psychotropic agents in schizophrenia, mood disorders, and other serious mental illnesses, as well as their pharmacokinetics and interactions. He has received several honors, most recently the Judith J. Saklad Memorial Award from CPNP in 2012 and the Teaching Excellence Award from the UT College of Pharmacy in 2013.
 
Disclosure: Dr. Stephen Saklad has the following relevant financial relationships, potential or perceived, with commercial or conflicts of interest to disclose:
Speakers Bureau: Actavis, Otsuka, Sunovion
Consultant: Janssen, Jazz, Otuska, Teva
Other: Member of the Pharmacists Foundation, Business Development Council for San Antonio

Mitigation: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy event planning committees reviewed the relationships and determined there was no connection between presentations and disclosed relationships.

 

 
Date: 07/08/26
Time: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Welcome! Start Here! - In-Person and Live Broadcast Information

Program Information for In-Person and Live Broadcast - CE credit - Please Read
   

Psychatric Pharmacotherpy Update LogoProgram Information for In-Person and Live Broadcast

Welcome to a premier interprofessional gathering of mental health leaders! We are thrilled to have you join us for a dedicated exploration of advanced psychiatric pharmacotherapy.

This event is a celebration of the complex, vital, and deeply respected work you do across the spectrum of mental health care. Whether you are reconnecting with fellow alumni or engaging with new colleagues from across the medical, nursing, and pharmacy professions, we hope you find this experience professionally revitalizing.

Our goal is to provide you with the "Implementation Advantage"—rigorous, evidence-based insights that you can translate directly into clinical excellence for your patients. Thank you for being part of this community and for your commitment to the science of care.

Hook 'em!

 


IN-PERSON ATTENDEES: THE AUSTIN EXPERIENCE
Where to Go The seminar is held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Austin. Upon arrival, head straight to the Registration Desk located just outside the main conference rooms to pick up your materials and name tag.
 
Parking (It’s on us!) Good news! Parking in the hotel garage is completely free for our attendees. Simply bring your parking ticket to the registration desk, and we will validate it for you.
 
Schedule
  • Checking-in: The Registration Table will open at 7:00 AM.  Breakfast will be provided each morning with the first session starting promptly at 8:00 AM
  • Thursday Social: Keep the momentum going with a second reception immediately following the final CE session at 5:00 PM.
  • Exhibitor Hall: Visit our exhibitors throughout the event to see the latest industry innovations.
What to Wear Dress is business casual—emphasizing the casual. Hotel conference rooms tend to run cold, so we highly recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater.
 
Location
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin
6505 North IH-35
Austin, TX 78752
(512) 454-3737
(800) 347-0330
 
Lodging
Registrants may book overnight accommodations with the DoubleTree Hotel.  Make reservations now in the hotel block here
 

ONLINE ATTENDEES: LIVE BROADCAST
How to Tune In For those joining us virtually, the action starts Thursday morning. Live Zoom links will be posted right here on this tab the week of the event. We will also send these links directly to your inbox for an easy "click and watch" experience.
 

THE ON-DEMAND EXPERIENCE
Catch Everything You Missed One of the best perks of the event is that you don't have to choose! All content will be recorded.
  • Availability: Recordings will be uploaded to this portal by mid-December.
  • Access: Use your same login to return to this site to watch any sessions you missed or to re-watch your favorites.
 

CONTINUING EDUCATION CONTENT
Be sure to log in!  Program session information will be located in the session tabs.  When logged in, you will see a section called "Course Materials".  Here we will include the session presentation sides in PDF form.  Look for the link at the bottom of the tab information.  If the speaker provided additional information and handouts, these will be made available in this space.
 
CONTENT AVAILABLE THE WEEK OF THE EVENT: We will start loading session slides and information the week prior to the live program.  
 

HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Online Video - Ready to Complete Upon Registration!  The Human Trafficking session, Identifying & Responding to Human Trafficking In a Clinical Setting for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians 2026, is ready for your learning NOW!  Upon registration,  you will see the course tab highlighted in Yellow.  This course video is ready for completion.  Watch the video in its entirely, then complete the post-test and online evaluation for CE credit.
 
This course is approved by Texas HHS, and is listed on the official HHS Approved Course list on page 29 under the organization of Unbound Now and UT Austin College of Pharmacy. 
 
 

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT - CPE / CME / CNE / CEU's
Be sure to log in!  When you register, pharmacists be asked to enter NABP profile and date of birth (month/day). This learning management system will use that data to load your CPE credits to your profiles.  For all others, a certificate will be created as you complete sessions. You will receive CE credit for any session that you attend in full and complete the online evaluation. The system automatically loads CE credit after you complete the online evaluation for each session.
 
After you attend a session either live in-person, watching live through the live Zoom broadcast, or later by watched the recorded videos*, complete the online evaluation attached to that session.  You must be logged in to access the evaluations.  The evaluations follow the ACPE/AACME/ACNE regulations for evaluations, you will notice a pattern as you complete them. 
 
CME/CNE/CEU Certificates: You can download your CE certificate anytime.  When you log in, you will see a link at the top right.  Pull down the menu, and you will see the option of "View/Print CE Certificate".  On that link you will see this program listed and a link to a PDF copy of the certificate.  As you complete session evaluations, the credits will load as you go.   Because this program allows flexibilitly in when you can view content and complete credit, an evaluation is required for all unique sessions. 
 
BE HONEST - We do not believe in policing professional pharmacists on their attendance.  We use the professional honor system where we know you will only complete evaluations for sessions that you fully attended.  There are two tracks, so please note the session you are completing the evaluation for, and please avoid claiming the concurrent sessions - its impossible to be in two places at once :-). 
 
 


   

Welcome to Day 1: Thursday October 22, 2026

Welcome - Live Broadcast Begins - Breakfast Information
   

Welcome to Day 1: The 38th Annual PSYCH Update!
 
Happy Thursday!
Welcome to the opening day of the 38th Annual Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update. We have an incredible lineup ahead, blending "Serious Science" with the advanced clinical insights needed for modern mental health practice.
 
Today, we dive deep into the biological and technological frontiers of psychiatry. From investigating the role of inflammation to exploring the emerging impact of AI, our sessions are designed to provide you with the Implementation Advantage. Don’t worry about missing a single detail, we’ve eliminated the "FOMO" by recording our sessions. Your registration includes full access to the entire on-demand library starting in late December, allowing you to revisit this complex material whenever you need it.
 

Thursday Navigation Tips
  • Integrated Learning: Today’s sessions take place in a single, interprofessional track. This allows pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and social workers to learn side-by-side, fostering a truly collaborative approach to patient care.
  • Online Attendees: The live broadcast link is located at the top of this page. We will be monitoring the Q&A throughout the day to ensure our virtual audience is part of the conversation.
  • The CPD Intensive (Optional): For those participating in the CPD Intensive, please join us during the designated lunch block for our initial planning and reflection exercises. This is your first step toward personalized professional advancement.
  • The Science of Connection: Use our morning and afternoon breaks to connect with your peers. While the focus is on rigorous science, the strength of this event is the community of professionals dedicated to mental health excellence.
 

Thursday Breakfast for In-Person Attendees
  • After checking in and picking up your badge, please join us for a hot breakfast to fuel up for a full day of learning.
  • 7:00–8:00 AM in the Pre-Function Area
 

Questions?
Please let us know if you need any assistance throughout the day:
  • In-Person: The Check-In desk will be staffed all day for your convenience.
  • Online: Reach out to our technical support team at UTPharmacyCE@Austin.UTexas.edu.
 
Enjoy the sessions, engage with the science, and Hook 'em!
 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 08:00 AM - 08:15 AM
   

Consensus Taskforce on Psychotropic Polypharmacy
   

Consensus Taskforce on Psychotropic Polypharmacy
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Identify the clinical prevalence of psychotropic polypharmacy and the specific limitations of current empirical literature regarding multi-drug regimens in complex psychiatric populations
  • Distinguish between rational and irrational polypharmacy by applying the consensus-driven criteria developed through the Delphi process

Faculty
 
Joseph F. Goldberg, MD
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
 
Joseph F. Goldberg, MD, is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He attended college at the University of Chicago, graduate school in neuroscience at the University of Illinois, and medical school at Northwestern University. He completed his residency and chief residency in psychiatry, and fellowship in psychopharmacology, at the Payne Whitney Clinic, New York Presbyterian Hospital, where he later served on the faculty and was site Principal Investigator at Weill-Cornell Medical Center for the NIMH STEP-BD program. Dr Goldberg has published over 220 peer-reviewed papers on topics related mainly to the treatment and clinical features of bipolar disorder, as well as 4 books on bipolar disorder and psychopharmacology, most recently, Practical Psychopharmacology: Translating Findings From Evidence-Based Trials into Real-World Clinical Practice, published in 2021 by Cambridge University Press. Dr Goldberg has served on the Board of Directors for the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology and is on the editorial boards for a number of peer-reviewed journals. His research has been awarded funding from NARSAD, NIMH, the Stanley Foundation, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Dr. Goldberg is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and has been listed for many years in Best Doctors in America and Castle Connolly’s America’s Top Doctors.
Disclosure: pending
 

 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 08:15 AM - 09:15 AM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Addiction Research Update
   

Addiction Research Update 
 

Learning Objectives 
  • TBA

Faculty
 
Tyler Varisco, Pharm.D., Ph.D. 
Director
Pharmacy Addictions Research and Medicine (PhARM) Program
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy 
 
Tyler Varisco is an assistant professor in the Health Outcomes Division and Director of the Pharmacy Addictions Research and Medicine Program at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. A registered pharmacist and trained health services researcher, Dr. Varisco earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from the University of Texas at Austin and his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy from the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. His research focuses on evaluating and improving the quality of care for persons with opioid use disorder (OUD). Dr. Varisco’s work leverages diverse research methods to identify and address systemic barriers to harm reduction and treatment in provider offices and pharmacies. Dr. Varisco led a collaborative effort between the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, the National Community Pharmacists Association, and three colleges of pharmacy to create and disseminate the Pharmacy Access to Resources and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Practice Guideline, a consensus, evidence based guidance to address clinical obstacles that limit access to medication for OUD in the community pharmacy setting. Dr. Varisco has a keen interest in identifying policy targets to promote equitable access to treatment for individuals living with substance use disorder or other behavioral health conditions. He currently serves as a subject matter expert for the revision of Treatment Improvement Protocol 63, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s guidance on medications for OUD. Much of his published research examines how policy changes affect patient and provider experiences with healthcare quality at the point of care for individuals in treatment and recovery
Disclosure: Dr. Varisco has no relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 

 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 09:15 AM - 10:15 AM

CE Hours

1.00
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
 
For our In-Person Attendees: Stretch your legs, grab a light refreshment, and head over to the Exhibitor Hall! We strongly encourage you to spend a few minutes visiting our partners. Beyond providing critical updates on the latest treatments and clinical tools, our exhibitors play a vital role in keeping registration costs low for everyone. It’s a great way to say thanks while staying ahead of industry innovations!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your well-deserved break! While you refill your coffee, we invite you to explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs located at the bottom of this page. You’ll find direct links and exclusive digital resources from our partners to keep you informed on the latest pharmacy solutions from the comfort of your home or office.
 

We will resume our next session in 15 minutes. See you back soon!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
   

The Role of Inflammation on Psychiatric Disorders
   

The Role of Inflammation on Psychiatric Disorders
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Describe the bidirectional relationship between the peripheral immune system and the central nervous system
  • Identify and interpret key laboratory markers to assess the inflammatory status of patients presenting with mood and anxiety disorders.
  • Evaluate clinical data supporting the use of inflammatory profiles to predict treatment response

Faculty
 
Manish Kumar Jha, M.D., MBBS
Associate Professor of Psychiatry and O'Donnell Clinical Neuroscience Scholar 
Department of Psychiatry
UT Southwestern Medical Center
 
Dr. Manish Jha is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Center of Depression Research and Clinical Care at UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX. He received his medical degree from Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, India and completed his residency training in Psychiatry at UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX. In addition to his research and educational activities, Dr. Jha maintains an active clinical practice focusing on evidence-based interventions for difficulty-to-treat depressive and anxiety disorders. He has received travel/new investigator awards from several national and international societies. He has authored/co-authored over 150 manuscripts.
 
Disclosure: Dr. Manish Jha has the following relevant financial relationships, potential or perceived, with commercial or conflicts of interest to disclose:
Dr. Jha has received contract research grants from Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Neurocrine Bioscience, Navitor/Supernus and Janssen Research & Development; honorarium to serve as Section Editor of the Psychiatry & Behavioral Health Learning Network and as Guest Editor for Psychiatric Clinics of North America from Elsevier; consultant fees from Eleusis Therapeutics US, Inc, Janssen Global Services, Janssen Scientific Affairs, Boehringer Ingelheim, Sanofi US Services, Abbvie, and Guidepoint Global; fees to serve on Data Safety and Monitoring Board for Worldwide Clinical Trials (Eliem and Inversargo), Vicore Pharma and IQVIA (Click); and honoraria for educational presentations from North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, Medscape/WebMD, Clinical Care Options, H.C. Wainwright & Co., and Global Medical Education.

Mitigation: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy event planning committees reviewed the relationships and determined there was no connection between presentations and disclosed relationships.

Review of Conflicts Policy: The UT Austin College of Pharmacy has a very strict policy to ensure against commercial conflicts of interest in CE programming. For this conference, the planning committee picks two committee members who have appropriate backgrounds to review content and report any potential conflict of interest to the CPE Director. If conflict issues are discovered, they are addressed with the speakers to make appropriate changes. Evaluations are collected from all participants with specific questions around the listed conflicts of commercial interest.


 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Nutritional Psychiatry: The Missing Piece in Mental Health Treatment?
   

Nutritional Psychiatry: The Missing Piece in Mental Health Treatment?
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Discuss scientific evidence for the role of nutritional interventions in the treatment in psychiatric disorders
  • Delineate the impact of nutrition and lifestyle changes on psychiatric disorders along with their role/place of in treatment of mental illness
  • Discuss the role of nutritional interventions in combination with or as an augmenting agent to traditional psychiatric medication therapy
 

Faculty
 
Deanna L. Kelly, PharmD., BCPP
Dr. William and Carol Carpenter Professor of
Psychiatry for Mental Illness Research
Director, Maryland Psychiatric Research Center (MPRC)
University of Maryland School of Medicine
 
Deanna L. Kelly, Pharm.D., BCPP is the Dr. William and Carol Carpenter Professor of Psychiatry for Mental Illness Research at University of Maryland Baltimore School of Medicine. She also serves as the Director of the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, a translational center advancing research and clinical care for people with schizophrenia. She also serves as an Affiliate Professor in the School of Pharmacy and a Professor of Neurobiology. Dr. Kelly received her Bachelor of Science and Doctorate in Pharmacy at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She completed residency training in psychiatric pharmacy practice at the University of Maryland and became board certified in psychiatric pharmacy practice. Dr. Kelly has led and been involved in numerous clinical trials in schizophrenia and severe mental illness and has been active in psychopharmacology research for almost 30 years. Dr. Kelly has coauthored and authored 25 books and book chapters, published over 270 peer-reviewed articles, presented over 250 scientific posters and has given over 250 invited lectures. She has coauthored four editions of the book entitled “Pharmacologic Treatment of Schizophrenia.” She also authors the Schizophrenia chapter for “Pharmacotherapy, Principles and Practice” and an author on the 2025 release, “Get your Brain off Grain.” She is Past President for the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), a Fellow of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP), awarded the prestigious Maltz Prize for Innovative and Promising Schizophrenia Research by the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation for her work on gluten and the brain in 2017 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-9lOpPUdg0, and named one of the top 100 women in Maryland. She was recently awarded the Gerard E. Hogarty Award for Excellence in Schizophrenia Research by UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital and the University of Pittsburgh, the 2024 G. Van Greene Distinguished Lecturer at Mercer University and the NAMI Scientific Research Award in 2026. Dr. Kelly is an international expert in expanding clozapine use, clinical trials for pharmacologic treatments, and dietary interventions related to mental health. Her work and scientific expertise has been featured in many news articles, podcasts and media presentations including the New York Times, National Geographic, NPR online, and Women’s Day Magazine.
Disclosure: Dr. Kelly does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies.
 


 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Lunch, Laughs, and Networking
   

Lunch, Laughs, and Networking
 
For our In-Person Attendees: It’s time to refuel! Please join us for a delicious buffet lunch. Enjoy a 1 hour break to enjoy your meal, network with colleagues, and spend some quality time with our exhibitors. Grab a plate, share a laugh, and make the most of this "Serious Fun" downtime!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your lunch break! We’ll be stepping away from the broadcast for 60 minutes. Feel free to use this time to stretch, grab a bite, and explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs below to see what’s new in the industry.
 
Enjoy your break, have fun, and we'll see you back at 1:30 PM!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
   

Postpartum Psychosis: Conceptualization and Pharmacologic Management
   

Postpartum Psychosis: Conceptualization and Pharmacologic Management
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Trace the changes in conceptualization of postpartum psychosis over time, including historical classification debates and current DSM considerations
  • Compare antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and other agents used in the acute and maintenance phases of postpartum psychosis
  • Recommend an appropriate pharmacological management plan for a patient with postpartum psychosis
 

Faculty
 
Priya Kumar-Kaparaboyna, MD
Assistant Professor
The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School 
 
Priya Kumar-Kaparaboyna, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist in both UT Medicine's Women's Reproductive Mental Health of Texas and Women's Health, a clinical partnership between Ascension Seton and UT Medicine. She specializes in perinatal and reproductive psychiatry and provides psychiatric care through preconception planning, pregnancy and the postpartum period. Additionally, Dr. Kumar-Kaparaboyna is an assistant professor in both Dell Medical School's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Department of Women’s Health. Dr. Kumar-Kaparaboyna earned dual bachelor's degrees in Plan II Honors and psychology from The University of Texas at Austin and her medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine. She completed a residency in general psychiatry at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and a fellowship in women’s mental health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kumar-Kaparaboyna previously served as the director of the Perinatal Mental Health Program at Oregon Health and Science University. She currently provides perinatal psychiatry consultation through Texas' Perinatal Psychiatry Access Network, a hotline for clinician-to-clinician consultation for providers serving pregnant women and new mothers experiencing mental health distress. Her clinical expertise includes the management of pre-existing mental health conditions in the perinatal period and the evaluation and treatment of new-onset pregnancy- and postpartum-related psychiatric concerns. She advocates for women’s mental health and works to expand patient access to perinatal psychiatry expertise at both local and national levels.
 
Disclosure: Dr. Kumar-Kaparaboyna has the following relevant financial relationships, potential or perceived, with commercial or conflicts of interest to disclose:
Research Grants: Novo Nordisk

Mitigation: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy event planning committees reviewed the relationships and determined there was no connection between presentations and disclosed relationships.

 

 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Considerations in the Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders in the Geriatric Population
   

Considerations in the Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders in the Geriatric Population
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Differentiate between first-line long-term treatments (and the limited, short-term indications for benzodiazepines in acute geriatric distress.
  • Implement evidence-based prescribing protocols that favor "LOT" agents for their cleaner metabolic profiles when BDZ use is clinically unavoidable.
  • Apply the 2025 ASAM/AGS guidelines for gradual benzodiazepine tapering and deprescribing to safely reduce chronic use while minimizing withdrawal symptoms.
 

Faculty
 
Jason E Schillerstrom, M.D.
Professor of Psychiatry
UT Health San Antonio
 
Dr. Schillerstrom is the Psychiatry Residency Training Director at UT Health San Antonio. This training program consists of 80 psychiatry residents of which half are active-duty Air Force physicians. This is one program with two missions: to prepare physicians who can provide the highest quality of psychiatric care to the citizens of South Texas and to active-duty servicemen and women and their dependents. Clinically, Dr. Schillerstrom is a geriatric psychiatrist who supervises a busy teaching clinic that cares for elders with dementia, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. He collaborates extensively with Adult Protective Services and local elder law attorneys and courts to inform capacity in guardianship cases.
Disclosure: Dr. Schillerstrom does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies.pending
 

Date: 10/22/26
Time: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
 
For our In-Person Attendees: Stretch your legs, grab a light refreshment, and head over to the Exhibitor Hall! We strongly encourage you to spend a few minutes visiting our partners. Beyond providing critical updates on the latest treatments and clinical tools, our exhibitors play a vital role in keeping registration costs low for everyone. It’s a great way to say thanks while staying ahead of industry innovations!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your well-deserved break! While you refill your coffee, we invite you to explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs located at the bottom of this page. You’ll find direct links and exclusive digital resources from our partners to keep you informed on the latest pharmacy solutions from the comfort of your home or office.
 

We will resume our next session in 15 minutes. See you back soon!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 03:30 PM - 03:45 PM
   

The Evolving Role of GLP-1 Therapies: From Metabolic Health to Substance Use Disorders
   

The Evolving Role of GLP-1 Therapies: From Metabolic Health to Substance Use Disorders
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Describe the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in metabolic and neurobiological regulation and summarize their current FDA-approved indications for type 2 diabetes and obesity.
  • Evaluate existing evidence on the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists in substance use disorders, drawing from human observational studies and early-phase clinical trials.
 

Faculty
 
Luba Yammine, PhD, APRN, FNP-C
Associate Professor
UT Health Houston McGovern Medical School
 
Luba Yammine, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. Her research program focuses on developing and testing novel pharmacologic approaches for addiction treatment, with a particular emphasis on repurposing glucagon like peptide 1 receptor agonist therapies for nicotine dependence, post cessation weight management, and other substance use disorders. Since leading the first human trial of extended release exenatide for smoking cessation, Dr. Yammine has become a national leader in this emerging field. She currently serves as Principal Investigator or MPI on multiple NIH-funded clinical trials, including two NIDA R01 studies investigating exenatide and semaglutide for tobacco and cocaine use disorders, as well as an investigator sponsored clinical trial funded by Novo Nordisk. Her work has been featured widely in national media and scientific venues, and she is frequently invited by NIH NIDA, and professional societies to present on GLP 1–based addiction therapeutics. Dr. Yammine also serves on multiple national committees, including the NIDA Clinical Trials Network DSMB and industry advisory groups.
Disclosure: Dr. Yammine has the following relevant financial relationships, potential or perceived, with commercial or conflicts of interest to disclose:
Consulting: Atlas Ventures

Mitigation: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy event planning committees reviewed the relationships and determined there was no connection between presentations and disclosed relationships.


Date: 10/22/26
Time: 03:45 PM - 04:45 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Serendipity in Psychiatric Discoveries
   

Serendipity in Psychiatric Discoveries
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Evaluate the historical impact of serendipity on psychiatric discovery to improve modern clinical observation skills.
  • Identify current barriers in standardized care and research that impede the detection of unexpected therapeutic outcomes.
  • Discuss a multi-level framework for moving rare, surprising clinical observations from the bedside to formal evaluation.
 

Faculty
 
Vineeth John, MD, MBA
Professor
Vice Chair, Education
Director, Geriatric Psychiatry Section
Distinguished Teaching Professor
Chair, Academy of Master Educators
Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston
 

Vineeth John, MD, MBA, is professor and vice chair for education in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.  John is also the Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Section and is actively involved in various educational initiatives directed towards enhancing domain expertise among psychiatry residents. He received his medical training from Christian Medical College in Vellore, India and completed his residency in general adult psychiatry at Tufts-New England Medical Center and fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Hospital. In addition, he holds an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh Katz School of Business.  John has held positions of academic leadership at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. From 2010-2015, he directed the General Adult Psychiatry Residency Program in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School.

Disclosure: Dr. John does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies

 

 
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 04:45 PM - 05:45 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Thursday Evening Reception: A Celebration of the Mental Health Profession
   

Thursday Evening Reception: A Celebration of the Mental Health Profession
 
For our In-Person Attendees: The clinical sessions for Day 1 are officially wrapped, the "Serious Science" is in the books, and now it’s time to decompress. Please join us for our Thursday Evening Reception, a gathering dedicated to the incredible professionals who lead the way in psychiatric care. Working in mental health is a demanding, high-stakes, and deeply respected calling. You navigate some of the most complex landscapes in healthcare with empathy and excellence every single day. Tonight is about stepping away from the data and the deep dives to simply enjoy the company of your peers. Whether you are catching up with longtime colleagues or making new interprofessional connections, we want you to relax and recharge. You’ve earned this moment of respite, and we are honored to celebrate the vital work you do.
 
For our Online Participants: As we sign off from today’s live broadcast, we want to send a huge "Hook 'em" your way. We hope you found today’s sessions insightful and that you feel empowered by the evidence-based tools you’ve gained. While we can’t share a conversation with you in the ballroom, we encourage you to take this time to celebrate your own dedication this evening. Reflect on the impact you have on your patients' lives and treat yourself to a well-deserved break. You’ve earned it!
 

Thank you for an incredible opening day. We look forward to seeing everyone back tomorrow morning for Day 2 of the 38th Annual PSYCH Update!
 
Hook 'em!
Date: 10/22/26
Time: 05:45 PM - 07:30 PM
   

Welcome to Day 2: Frisday October 23, 2026

Welcome - Live Broadcast Begins - Breakfast
   

Welcome to Day 2: The 38th Annual PSYCH Update!
 
Happy Friday!
Welcome to the opening day of the 38th Annual Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update. We have an incredible lineup ahead, blending "Serious Science" with the advanced clinical insights needed for modern mental health practice.
 
Today, we dive deep into clarity of common myths in psychiatric treatment, discussing off-lable options for ADHD, learning about treatments for acute aggression, Buprenophine for chonic pain, and the latest in new psychiatric agents. Don’t worry about missing a single detail, we’ve eliminated the "FOMO" by recording our sessions. Your registration includes full access to the entire on-demand library starting in late December, allowing you to revisit this complex material whenever you need it.
 

Friday Navigation Tips
  • Integrated Learning: Today’s sessions take place in a single, interprofessional track. This allows pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and social workers to learn side-by-side, fostering a truly collaborative approach to patient care.
  • Online Attendees: The live broadcast link is located at the top of this page. We will be monitoring the Q&A throughout the day to ensure our virtual audience is part of the conversation.
  • The CPD Intensive (Optional): For those participating in the CPD Intensive, please join us during the designated lunch block for finalizing CPD goals and SMART Objectives setting you to launch into applicable learning through the coming year.
  • The Science of Connection: Use our morning and afternoon breaks to connect with your peers. While the focus is on rigorous science, the strength of this event is the community of professionals dedicated to mental health excellence.
 

Thursday Breakfast for In-Person Attendees
  • After checking in and picking up your badge, please join us for a hot breakfast to fuel up for a full day of learning.
  • 7:30–8:15 AM in the Pre-Function Area
 

Questions?
Please let us know if you need any assistance throughout the day:
  • In-Person: The Check-In desk will be staffed all day for your convenience.
  • Online: Reach out to our technical support team at UTPharmacyCE@Austin.UTexas.edu.
 
Enjoy the sessions, engage with the science, finish strong, and Hook 'em!
 
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 08:00 AM - 08:15 AM
   

Psychopharmacology: Fact or Myth
   

Psychopharmacology: Fact or Myth
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Assess common misperceptions in psychopharmacology related to the use of neuroleptic medications and vitamins.
  • Evaluate if available evidence supports or disproves common psychopharmacologic treatment myths.
  • Create evidence-based recommendations using case examples.
 

Faculty
 
Brendon Hogan, Pharm.D., BCPP
VISN12 CRH Pharmacy Program Manager
Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner
 
Brendon Hogan obtained his B.A. in Bio-Chemistry from the University of North Texas in 2010 and his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of Texas at Austin in 2015. He completed a PGY1 General Pharmacy Residency in 2016 and a PGY2 in Psychiatric Pharmacy Residency in 2017 at the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System (CTVHCS) in Temple, Texas. He then began work in the outpatient mental health clinic (MHC) at CTVHCS doing medication management and using non-traditional treatment modalities such as auricular acupuncture and cranial electrotherapy stimulation. In 2018 he became Residency Program Director (RPD) for the PGY2 Psychiatric Pharmacy program and in 2019 he became a certified trainer for Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA). In December 2019 he was hired as the Clinical Pharmacy Supervisor for the Mental Health and Pain Clinical Pharmacy Practitioners (CPP). In 2024 he became the Pharmacist Program Manager for VISN12 Clinical Resource Hub.
Disclosure: Dr. Hogan does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
 
Kristen Neumeister, Pharm.D., BCPP
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Psychiatry
Health and Specialty Care System | North Texas State Hospital
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
 
Kristen Neumeister is a board-certified psychiatric pharmacist who received her Pharm.D. degree from Drake University College of Pharmacy and completed her psychiatric residency training at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Following her residency training, Kristen began working at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, TX where she was actively involved in precepting pharmacy learners and resident psychiatrists, lecturing for the psychiatry residency program, and rounding with interdisciplinary treatment teams. After 6 years at John Peter Smith Hospital, she transitioned to a new role at North Texas State Hospital, where she completes psychopharmacology consults, serves as a drug information resource, creates and updates policies and protocols, and attends multidisciplinary treatment team rounds. She is also an appointed member of the HHSC Psychiatric Executive Formulary Committee and served on the Recertification Editorial Board for the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP) from 2020-2023.
Disclosure: Dr. Neumeister does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 

 
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 08:15 AM - 09:15 AM

CE Hours

1.00
   

Off-Label and Out of Options? Pharmacologic Strategies for Disruptive Behaviors in ADHD
   

Off-Label and Out of Options? Pharmacologic Strategies for Disruptive Behaviors in ADHD
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Differentiate common comorbid disorders associated with disruptive behaviors in youth with ADHD to inform pharmacologic treatment.
  • Critically evaluate the existing evidence for pharmacologic management of ADHD with comorbid disruptive behaviors, particularly in areas with limited or low-quality data.
  • Develop a systematic, patient-centered framework to monitor efficacy and safety when using off-label pharmacologic treatments in youth with ADHD and disruptive behaviors.
 

Faculty
 
Mellissa Reyes, PharmD, BCPP
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist- Psychiatry
Ascension Dell Children’s Medical Group
 
Melissa Reyes, PharmD, BCPP, is a clinical pharmacy specialist in psychiatry at Dell Children’s Medical Center. She received her PharmD from the University of New Mexico in 2007. Melissa completed a PGY-1 at the Puget Sound VA Medical Center and a PGY-2 in psychiatry at the University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy. Melissa has been a clinical pharmacy specialist with Ascension Seton since 2013 where she has worked in a variety of mental health settings. Since 2017 she has focused on Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology and serves as a primary preceptor with the UT Dell Med CAP Fellowship program. In her free time, Melissa can be found around Austin enjoying all the outdoor spaces and recreational activities the city has to offer.
Disclosure: Dr. Reyes does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies.
 

Date: 10/23/26
Time: 09:15 AM - 10:15 AM

CE Hours

1.00
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
 
For our In-Person Attendees: Stretch your legs, grab a light refreshment, and head over to the Exhibitor Hall! We strongly encourage you to spend a few minutes visiting our partners. Beyond providing critical updates on the latest treatments and clinical tools, our exhibitors play a vital role in keeping registration costs low for everyone. It’s a great way to say thanks while staying ahead of industry innovations!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your well-deserved break! While you refill your coffee, we invite you to explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs located at the bottom of this page. You’ll find direct links and exclusive digital resources from our partners to keep you informed on the latest pharmacy solutions from the comfort of your home or office.
 

We will resume our next session in 15 minutes. See you back soon!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
   

Rapid Fire: 20 min Fast Sessions:
   

Rapid Fire: 20 min Fast Sessions: 
This session consists of three 20-minute sessions. At the end of the presentations, all speakers will participate in a Q&A panel. 
 

Session I: QT Prolongation with Psychotropic Drugs: Knowing the Drugs that Matter
 
Learning Objectives 
  • Identify psychotropic medications with higher QT prolongation risk
  • Assess patient? and treatment?related risk factors for QT prolongation
  • Discuss monitoring and risk?mitigation strategies when prescribing QT?prolonging psychotropics
 
Faculty
 
Samantha Catanzano, Pharm.D., BCPP
Clinical Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
 
After graduating with her Pharm.D. degree from the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Catanzano completed a pharmacy practice residency followed by a psychiatric pharmacy practice residency at Seton Healthcare Family and The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. Following her residency training, she gained experience as a clinical and staff pharmacist at the Austin State Hospital. Currently, she serves as a Clinical Associate Professor for The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy with an adjunctive appointment at Dell Medical School. In addition to her academic appointments, she is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist at UT Health Austin within the Integrated Behavioral Health Department where she serves various clinics including Primary Care and the Bipolar Disorder Center. In this role, she functions as part of a multidisciplinary team to address complex pharmacotherapy and mental health needs. Additionally, she is a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor and is an active leader within the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP).
Disclosure: Dr. Catanzano does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
 

Session II: Disparities Between Antipsychotic Dosing Recommendations and Clinical Practice: Where do we go from here?
 
Learning Objectives 
  • Review literature on the association between antipsychotic dose and efficacy in the treatment of acute schizophrenia.
  • Discuss pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic principles to consider when titrating or tapering antipsychotics.
 
Faculty
 
Nina Vadiei, PharmD, BCPP
Clinical Associate Professor
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
 
Nina Vadiei graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with her PharmD then completed her PGY1 and PGY2 psychiatric pharmacy residency with Ascension Seton Healthcare. She then moved to Tucson, Arizona to start her first post-residency position as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona (UA) College of Pharmacy in the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry. She practiced as a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Psychiatry at Banner University Medical Center South, managing medications for patients with serious mental illness and on the geriatric psychiatry unit. After six years with the University of Arizona, she transferred to her current position as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy in the Division of Pharmacotherapy & Translational Sciences in San Antonio. She spends half of her time practicing as a psychiatric pharmacist at San Antonio State Hospital, completing psychopharmacology consults for patients with serious mental illness and evaluating hospital and system-level psychotropic prescribing patterns. She precepts pharmacy students and residents who elect to complete clinical rotations in psychiatric pharmacy, always striving to make learning experiences fun and thought-provoking regardless of the learner’s interest in pursuing psychiatry as a career. Her primary areas of research include serious mental illness, substance use disorders, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. 
Disclosure: Dr. Vadiei does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
 

Session III: TBA
 
Learning Objectives 
  • TBA
 
Faculty
 
TBA
Title
 
Bio:
Disclosure: 
 

Date: 10/23/26
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:45 PM

CE Hours

1.25
   

Lunch, Laughs, and Networking
   

Lunch, Laughs, and Networking
 
For our In-Person Attendees: It’s time to refuel! Please join us for a delicious buffet lunch. Enjoy a 1 hour break to enjoy your meal, network with colleagues, and spend some quality time with our exhibitors. Grab a plate, share a laugh, and make the most of this "Serious Fun" downtime!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your lunch break! We’ll be stepping away from the broadcast for 60 minutes. Feel free to use this time to stretch, grab a bite, and explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs below to see what’s new in the industry.
 
Enjoy your break, have fun, and we'll see you back at 12:45 PM!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
   

Treatment of Acute Aggression and Agitation in Those with SMI
   

Treatment of Acute Aggression and Agitation in Those with SMI
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Discuss rapid-onset pharmacological interventions to optimize speed of onset in SMI crises.
  • Apply current "calming without over-sedation" protocols to preserve the therapeutic alliance and improve diagnostic accuracy during acute agitation.
  • Evaluate the impact of 2025/2026 federal (SAMHSA/HHS) and state-level (e.g., Texas HHS) guidelines on mobile crisis response, emergency department workflows, and involuntary medication protocols.
 

Faculty
 
Rania Kattura, Pharm.D., M.S.Phr., BCPP
Clinical Psychiatric Pharmacist
Austin State Hospital
 
Dr. Rania Kattura received her Pharm.D. degree at The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. She completed a PGY2 in Residency Psychiatric Pharmacy in combination with a Master of Science in Pharmacy at The University of Texas at Austin and its affiliated institutions (Austin State Hospital, Seton Shoal Creek, Temple VA and City of Austin Community Clinics). She is board certified in psychiatric pharmacy. Currently, Dr. Kattura is a Clinical Pharmacist at the Austin State Hospital. As a clinical pharmacist, she participates in direct patient care as a member of a multidisciplinary treatment team, provides weekly medication education groups and completes psychopharmacology consults when requested by the physicians at the hospital. The patient population she works with suffers from a variety of psychiatric disorders such as depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In addition to her patient care responsibilities, Dr. Kattura staffs in the ASH pharmacy and precepts Pharm.D. students on rotation. Dr. Kattura ensures to attend the UT Psych Update annually and has been a member of its planning committee for many years.
Disclosure: Dr. Kattura does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies.
 

 
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 12:45 PM - 01:45 PM

CE Hours

1.25
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
   

A Quick Break for Refreshments & Connection
 
For our In-Person Attendees: Stretch your legs, grab a light refreshment, and head over to the Exhibitor Hall! We strongly encourage you to spend a few minutes visiting our partners. Beyond providing critical updates on the latest treatments and clinical tools, our exhibitors play a vital role in keeping registration costs low for everyone. It’s a great way to say thanks while staying ahead of industry innovations!
 
For our Online Participants: Enjoy your well-deserved break! While you refill your coffee, we invite you to explore the Virtual Exhibitor Tabs located at the bottom of this page. You’ll find direct links and exclusive digital resources from our partners to keep you informed on the latest pharmacy solutions from the comfort of your home or office.
 

We will resume our next session in 15 minutes. See you back soon!
 
Hook'em!
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 01:45 PM - 02:00 PM
   

Buprenorphine for Chronic Pain and Opioid Dependence
   

Buprenorphine for Chronic Pain and Opioid Dependence
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Differentiate between iatrogenic opioid dependence in chronic pain versus opioid use disorder (OUD) and the use of buprenorphine for each indication
  • Compare the efficacy and safety of buprenorphine versus full opioid agonists for the long-term management of chronic pain
  • Review common clinical scenarios for patients prescribed buprenorphine
 

Faculty
 
Nabilah Ahmed, PharmD, BCPMP, BCPP
Comprehensive Pain Program Manager | PMOP Coordinator
South Texas Veterans Health Care System
Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital
 
Bio: pending
Disclosure: pending
 

 
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

AI Role in Mental Health
   

AI Role in Mental Health
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Analyze the "paucity of high-quality clinical evidence" for mental health chatbots and AI tools, and how this impacts clinical safety.
  • Apply the NAMI-informed benchmarks for AI safety to critically assess whether an AI tool is suitable for clinical integration or remains in the "wellness" category.
 

Faculty
 
Andrea Sikora, PharmD
Associate Professor, Biomedical Informatics
University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine
 
Andrea Sikora, PharmD, MSCR, BCCCP, FCCM, FCCP is an Associate Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in the Department of Biomedical Informatics. She holds an adjunct faculty appointment at the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Pharmacy. She graduated from UGA College of Pharmacy, completed her PGY1 Pharmacy Residency and PGY2 Critical Care Pharmacy Residency at the University of North Carolina (UNC) Medical Center in Chapel Hill, NC, and completed her Master of Science in Clinical Research from Emory University. She has received several federal grants evaluating applications of artificial intelligence for optimized medication use in the intensive care unit (ICU) and is an author of two books Pay It Forward: A Map to Mentorship in Medicine and InteGREAT: a guidebook for making great healthcare teams.
Disclosure: Dr. Sikora does not have any relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies.
 

 
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

CE Hours

1.00
   

That’s a Wrap! Thank You for Joining Us - Overall Evaluation - Must Complete
   

Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update logoThat’s a Wrap! Thank You for Joining Us
 
Thank you for being part of the 38th annual Psychiatric Pharamacotherapy!
 
As we conclude this year’s program, we want to express our deepest gratitude to you for choosing to spend your weekend with The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. We hope you enjoyed the "Serious Science" and that you’re walking away with practical, high-impact tools you can apply to your practice first thing when you return to practice. 
 

One Final Request: We Value Your Voice - Overall Evaluation
 
Before you sign off, please take a moment to complete the Online Overall Evaluation.
 
We know you are "evaluation-over-loaded" at this point, but know this is incredibly important to us! We don't just read your comments, we use them to build the foundation for next year’s program. Whether it's a suggestion for a new topic, feedback on the schedule, or a shout-out to a favorite speaker, your data helps us ensure that PSYCH continues to be the premier event for mental health professionals.
 

See You Soon!
 
Remember, your registration includes access to the On-Demand Portal starting in mid-December, so keep your login handy to revisit any sessions you missed.
 
Thank you for your dedication to your patients, your profession, and your own lifelong learning. We can’t wait to see the "Implementation Advantage" you bring to your communities!
 

Safe travels, stay connected, and Hook 'em!
Date: 10/23/26
Time: 04:00 PM - 04:00 PM
   

BONUS SESSION: Human Trafficking Course (CPE Credit Only): On-Demand Video - Early Access Open Now

Identifying & Responding to Human Trafficking In a Clinical SettingĀ for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians 2026
   

2026 Identifying & Responding to Human Trafficking In a Clinical Setting for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians
 
This course is approved by Texas HHS, and is listed on the official HHS Approved Course list on page 29 under the organization of Unbound Now and UT Austin College of Pharmacy. 
 
This credit is valid for all professions, but the content is catered to pharmacy practice, and this program does not include CE credit other than CPE.  That said, the program does count for all professions for meeting the Human Traffkicking requirement. See the HHS approval letter here. 
 

 
SPECIAL THANK YOU TO UNBOUND NOW
Unbound Now is our partner in creating this FREE online CE course.  Unbound Now secures this content approval from HHS and is a leader in human trafficking prevention in Texas.  We thank them for their commitment in this area and highly recommend you visit their website at: https://unboundnow.org/
 

FACULTY
 
Paola Chavez Reyes
Outreach & Training Program Director
(817) 319-0270 | unboundnow.org | @unboundnow
 
Paola Chavez serves as the Outreach and Training Program Director for Unbound Now, overseeing efforts across Texas and Louisiana to raise awareness, train professionals, and strengthen human trafficking response systems. She specializes in trauma-informed, cross-sector training and collaboration for frontline professionals. She is committed to strengthening community capacity to identify and respond to victims of human trafficking. 
Disclosure: Ms Chavez has no relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
 
Claire Latiolais, Pharm.D., M.S.
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Formulary Management & Informatics
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Regional Director - Galveston/HoustonAssistant Professor of Practice
 
Dr. Claire Latiolais graduated from Purdue University with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2015. She went on to complete an ASHP accredited Health-System Pharmacy Administration residency in The Houston Program at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, TX. Along with this program, she completed her Master’s in Pharmacy Leadership and Administration from the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. She joined the faculty at The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy (UTCOP) in 2018 and served as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the department of Pharmacy Practice. In the fall of 2022, Dr. Latiolais transitioned into a new role at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center as a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist on the Medication Management and Informatics team. In addition, Dr. Latiolais continued an appointment with UTCOP as the Experiential Regional Director for the Galveston/Houston Region until 2025. Dr. Latiolais is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) where she served on the 2019-2020 New Practitioners Forum Executive Committee and currently serves on the Section Pharmacy Educators Executive Committee, the Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists (TSHP) where she serves as Vice - Chair of the Education Affairs Council, the Central Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists (CTSHP) where she served as a Board Member, Phi Lambda Sigma, Phi Delta Chi, and Rho Chi. 
Disclosure: Ms Latiolais has no relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 
 
Sarah Kubes, PharmD, BCPPS 
Clinical Assistant Professor, Pharmacotherapy and Translational Sciences Division
Alumni Centennial Endowed Fellow; 2022 – 2023
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Pediatric Clinical Specialist Pharmacist - Pediatric Trauma & Pediatric General Surgery
University Health System, San Antonio, TX
Adjoint Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medicine
Long School of Medicine, UT Health Science Center San Antonio
 
Dr. Kubes’ primary areas of research include quality improvement in pediatrics and infectious diseases. Her clinical interests include pediatrics, infectious diseases, and maternal health.
Disclosure: Dr. Kubes has no relevant financial relationship(s) with ineligible companies
 

Activity Number

0067-0000-26-021-H04-P/T

Release Date: Mar 3, 2026
Credit Expiration Date: Mar 3, 2028

CE Hours

1.00
   

Winter BONUS Webinar

2026 Psychotropic New Drug Update 2
   

NEW for 2026: Live Broadcast Webinar Session

Welcome to a premier interprofessional gathering of mental health leaders! We are thrilled to have you join us for a dedicated exploration of advanced psychiatric pharmacotherapy.

This year we are adding FREE addtional BONUS CE webinars.  These sessions provide early content.  Both webinars will be recorded for later viewing as well.  

Hook 'em!


Webinar Instructions
 
How to Tune In
Live Zoom links will be posted right here on this tab the week of the event. We will also send these links directly to your inbox for an easy "click and watch" experience.
 

 
2026 Psychotropic New Drug Update 2
This program will be a bonus webinar held during December 2026 with the final date still TBD
 

Learning Objectives 
  • Describe the pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, therapeutic uses, and dosing of selected psychiatric drugs recently marketed as well as drugs approaching the market.
  • Review pharmacology, adverse effects, drug interactions, therapeutic uses, and dosing of selected psychiatric drugs that have been released in the past five years.
 

Faculty
 
Stephen R. Saklad, Pharm.D., BCPP
Clinical Professor (Retired)
The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy  
Division of Pharmacotherapy, UT Health San Antonio, Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine
Pharmacotherapy Education and Research Center  
 
Dr. Saklad is a Clinical Professor at The University of Texas College of Pharmacy and a Pharmacist at San Antonio State Hospital since 1979. He has focused his career on clinical care, teaching, and research to improve the quality of life and function in the seriously and persistently mentally ill. He helped to create a clinical research unit at San Antonio State Hospital and developed the first websites for The University of Texas College of Pharmacy and the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP). He is the Director of the University of Texas Psychiatric Pharmacy Program in San Antonio, having trained over 70 advanced practice pharmacists in psychiatric pharmacy. Dr. Saklad is a Founding Member of CPNP, served on the CPNP Board of Directors, and was the founding senior editor of their peer-reviewed journal, the Mental Health Clinician. He has published articles and presented to many groups around the country on a variety of pharmacy and mental health-related topics. He is a principal or co-investigator for several studies of the efficacy and adverse effects of Phase II, III, and IV psychotropic agents in schizophrenia, mood disorders, and other serious mental illnesses, as well as their pharmacokinetics and interactions. He has received several honors, most recently the Judith J. Saklad Memorial Award from CPNP in 2012 and the Teaching Excellence Award from the UT College of Pharmacy in 2013.
 
Disclosure: Dr. Stephen Saklad has the following relevant financial relationships, potential or perceived, with commercial or conflicts of interest to disclose:
Speakers Bureau: Actavis, Otsuka, Sunovion
Consultant: Janssen, Jazz, Otuska, Teva
Other: Member of the Pharmacists Foundation, Business Development Council for San Antonio

Mitigation: The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy event planning committees reviewed the relationships and determined there was no connection between presentations and disclosed relationships.

 

 

Release Date: Dec 2, 2026
Credit Expiration Date: Dec 2, 2029

CE Hours

1.00
   

Thank you to our Exhibitors and Sponsors

Exhibitors & Sponsors
   

Exhibitors & Sponsors

 
We extend our sincere thanks to the organizations exhibiting and sponsoring the Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update. Their support plays a vital role in making this program possible and in enhancing the educational and networking experience for our attendees.
 
We encourage all registrants—especially those joining us in person in Austin—to visit the exhibitor tabs below. Our exhibitors are an important part of the meeting and offer valuable opportunities to learn about innovative products, services, and resources while engaging in meaningful, one?on?one conversations throughout the conference.
 
If your organization is interested in exhibiting and/or sponsoring the Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Glen Baumgart at gbaumgart@austin.utexas.edu, or sign up now using our Exhibitor & Sponsor registration website: Sign up Here!
 

 
 
 

   

Electromedical Products Internation, Inc.
   

Electromedical Products Internation, Inc. 
 
Thank you Electromedical Products Internation, Inc. for supporting and exhibiting at the Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update!  
 
Please visit Jeff Neu at the exhibit tables, or email Jeff at jneu@epii.com
 

   

UTMB: University of Texas Medical Branch - Now Hiring
   

UTMB University of Texas Medical Branch 
 
Thank you UTMB for supporting and exhibiting at the Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update!  
 
Please visit Kevin Martin at the exhibit tables, or email Kevin at Kelmarti@utmb.edu
 
Kevin Martin
Sr. Recruiter/Human Resources– Correctional Managed Care (CMC)
1560 W. Bay Area Blvd. Ste. 100 Friendswood, Tx 77546
P 409-747-2694 F 409-763-1915 E Kelmarti@utmb.edu
University of Texas Medical Branch
 

 
 

   

Exhibit at the 38th Psychatric Pharamcotherapy Update
   

Your Company Name Here 
 
Space is still availalbe for supporting and exhibiting at the Psychiatric Pharmacotherapy Update!  
 
Please contact Glen Baugmart at gbuamgart@austin.utexas.edu for more information