COE-NF In Action

Consultation Summaries

Our COE-NF In-Action Summaries demonstrate how we provide critical mental health and substance use supports to nursing facilities. Explore the summaries for ideas and ways you too can transform your nursing facility’s approach to providing high quality behavioral health care to residents. 

Region: 4

Evidence-based mental health training provided by the COE-NF equips behavioral health ambassadors with the necessary tools to de-escalate incidents of aggression, thereby providing a safe and healthy environment for residents,…

Region: 9

A vice president of recreation and life enrichment consulted the COE-NF to help improve the quality of care in 40 skilled nursing facilities across three states. The facilities’ representative recognized…

Region: 8

Advancing patient-centered care in hopes of improving the quality of life for residents with comorbidities. The COE-NF advocates for an empathetic approach to resident resistance. Case Description: The COE-NF regional…

Region: 3

Implementing the CARES® Serious Mental Illness Online Training Program to meet the mental health needs of residents with diverse behavioral health needs. Case Description: The leadership of a nursing facility…

The November 2024 newsletter highlights resources and training to enhance mental health care in nursing facilities. Key topics include National Native American Heritage Month, guidance on best practices for nursing…

The October 2024 newsletter highlights resources and training to enhance mental health care in nursing facilities. Key topics include National Depression Screening Day, guidance on psychotropic medication use, and upcoming…

In this episode, host Diane Sanders-Cepeda, DO, CMD, and special guests Jennifer Azen, MD, and Barbara Resnick, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP, discuss practical strategies for managing pain in patients…

the center of excellence for behavioral health in nursing facilities (COE-NF)

Established by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in partnership with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the COE-NF offers Certified Medicare and Medicaid Nursing Facility Staff a centralized resource hub with easy access to trainings, technical assistance and additional resources, at no cost.

What We Do

We help nursing facilities to improve the quality of life and care provided for residents who are experiencing a variety of behavioral health disorders, with a focus on Serious Mental Illness (SMI), Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Co-Occurring Disorders (COD).

Who We Help

We provide direct technical assistance, evidence-based training, and resources that are appropriate for every member of your long-term care facility — from those providing day-to-day direct care, to clinical and administrative staff.