Grafenwoehr hosts German-American Behavioral Health conference

By CPT Timothy S. Greenhill, Psy.D.March 3, 2015

German-American Behavioral Health
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German-American Behavioral Health Conference
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GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- The Bavaria Medical Department Activity and Grafenwoehr Army Health Clinic hosted the first German-American Behavioral Health Conference, Feb. 27, at the Water Tower Conference Room of Tower Barracks.

The conference offered the American Behavioral Health providers currently working with the Bavaria military community an opportunity to interact with their German counterparts, through an afternoon of presentations by providers of both countries. The providers also had time for discussions of services offered.

American presenters included Mr. Brian Olden, chief of BMEDDAC's Behavioral Health, who discussed Behavioral Health services that are offered to Soldiers and their families in the Bavaria region; and Dr. (MAJ) Nathan Hartvigsen, Psychiatrist/Officer in Charge of the Grafenwoehr Behavioral Health Clinic, who discussed Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment and Dispositions.

German presenters included LTC Martin Mehringer, who discussed the German Mental Health Care Network and his job as a Guide for Injured Soldiers; Mr. Tobias Krampe, who explained the organization and tasks of social services in the German Armed Forces; and SSG Michael Poh, who reviewed the Family Care Services of the Armed Forces.

The presentations led to discussions among the providers about the similarities and differences of the two armed forces, and the behavioral health service delivery method for Soldiers and families. The attendees said they agreed it was a great opportunity and there would be value in holding the meeting on a more regular basis, possibly expanding the discussion topics to include current treatments and assessments of Soldiers, among others.