WHAT: Beacon of Light Mental Health Ministry will host its 2026 Beacon of Light Mental Health Conference in partnership with the DFW Spiritual Care Network, bringing together faith leaders, mental health and addiction professionals, civic leaders and community members for a day of education, connection and practical resources.
Under the theme “Uniting Faith and Science to Strengthen Mental Health Ministry,” the conference will explore some of the most pressing mental health challenges affecting individuals, families, churches and communities across North Texas. Topics include mental wellness, trauma, suicide prevention, overdose awareness, substance use and relationships, with an emphasis on strengthening connections among mental health care, faith communities and community-based resources.
More than 20 resource tables will feature nonprofit organizations, treatment centers, counselors, hospitals, and other community programs. These connections can help individuals, families, churches, and professionals better understand the treatment and support resources available in our area.
WHO: The conference is designed for anyone who wants to better understand mental health challenges and become more prepared to respond – whether as a faith leader, mental health professional, community leader, or concerned family or community member.
Speakers include experienced professionals and subject matter experts: Rev. Allyson Johnson, St. Andrew Methodist Church (Keynote Speaker – “The False Divide: A Sacred Bridge Between Mental Health and Faith”); Garrett Woods, PhD; Sandi Morse, LCSW-S; Bryna Talamantez, LMFT; Theresa Little, The Family Place; Shirley Weddle(survivor of suicide loss); Brittany Tinsley(author, Stories Our Scars Tell) as well as educational sessions addressing some of the top mental health issues affecting our community. Continuing Education Credits (4) will also be available for qualifying professionals.
WHY: People often turn to someone they trust before they seek professional help. This conference prepares churches and faith leaders as well as community members for those conversations, providing knowledge on how to respond and connections for appropriate care.
WHEN: Thursday, November 5, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE: St. Andrew Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas
COST: Individual tickets range from $20 (general attendee) to $50 (Professionals, 4 CE credits provided). Breakfast and lunch are included.
Registration required: spiritualcarenet.org/event-details/beacon-of-light-plano-2026
Event information (full schedule): Beacon of Light Mental Health Conference 2026
Conference is sponsored by the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA).
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ABOUT Beacon of Light – Beacon of Light Mental Health Ministry is an independent nonprofit that equips churches to respond to mental health challenges with compassion, confidence and appropriate care. Through Christ-centered, clinically informed training, practical resources and church partnerships, Beacon of Light helps pastors, staff and lay leaders recognize needs, support individuals and families, and connect people with professional help when needed. Learn more at beaconoflightmh.org.
ABOUT DFW Spiritual Care Network - the mission of the Spiritual Care Network is to bridge the gap between mental health providers, addiction professionals, and the faith community through collaboration and education. They host monthly networking meetings in Collin County, Dallas, and Fort Worth. Learn more at spiritualcarenet.org.