For Release: February 23, 2024
Contact: Maddy Schoap, Public Affairs Director, 301-986-8770, maddy@natsap.org


NATSAP Utah Chapter Recognizes Exceptional Support from State Leadership at Advocacy Day Event

Salt Lake City, UT— The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) Utah Chapter proudly announced its recent Utah Advocacy Day, a premier event exclusively crafted for its Utah chapter members. Held on February 15, this event provided unprecedented access and invaluable insights for attendees.

NATSAP's Utah Advocacy Day featured a lineup of distinguished guests, including Lieutenant Governor Deidre M. Henderson, and State Senator Mike McKell. Attendees had the unique opportunity to engage in private sessions with these esteemed leaders, gaining insights into the future of therapeutic schools and programs in the state. NATSAP extends heartfelt gratitude to the Utah legislators who joined the event, demonstrating their commitment to understanding and supporting the needs of the therapeutic education community.

Trina Quinney-Packard, M.Ed, President of NATSAP’s Utah Chapter, expressed gratitude for the extraordinary support shown by Governor Cox and other state officials. "We are immensely grateful for the Governor's unwavering support of programs and schools dedicated to helping Utah's youth," Trina remarked. "His commitment to our cause is truly commendable and inspires us to continue our mission of providing vital services to those in need."

Norm Thibault, PhD, LMFT, NATSAP Board Member, along with Darcy Holt and Clint Dorny, NATSAP’s Utah Chapter Executive Team, echoed Trina's sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the event in fostering collaboration between the state government and therapeutic education providers.

Participants enjoyed insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and the chance to make their voices heard on critical issues affecting therapeutic education in Utah.

For more information about NATSAP, log onto www.natsap.org. 

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About the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP)
Founded in January 1999, NATSAP, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit membership organization, is a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Located throughout the U.S., NATSAP members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness therapy programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs. The Association is governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors comprised of representatives from its membership. NATSAP members are independently operated and owned; therefore, NATSAP does not provide placement services. All NATSAP member programs that treat children under 18 are overseen by state therapeutic licensure or accredited by major mental health bodies, and in some cases, both.