Jennifer Nguyen, MSW
Jennifer Nguyen (Jenn) was born and raised in Nashville, TN. In 2014, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Biological Sciences from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, and her Masters in Social Work from Louisiana State University in 2018. She completed her advanced field internship in the Office of Prevention and Early Intervention Services at the TN Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Division of Substance Abuse Services and returned to work as a Program Manager in the same office after graduation. As an intern, Jenn led a workgroup to update the Tennessee Tobacco Retailer Education guide, which hadn’t been updated since 2011. As a Program Manager, Jenn has helped oversee and manage both federal and state grants for more than 15 county-level substance use prevention coalitions. Jenn is passionate about behavioral health and increasing access to services and resources for all populations.
session summary: This presentation addresses youth substance use by examining current trends, identifying risk factors, and recognizing emerging patterns. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration with community resources—including schools, healthcare providers, and local organizations—to build coordinated support systems. Additionally, it highlights the role of families through education, open communication, and support programs to strengthen prevention and intervention efforts.
learning objectives:
- Understand the Landscape of Substance Use Among Youth
- Enhance Collaboration with Community Resources
- Engage Families and Caregivers in Prevention and Intervention
