On the Rocks (OTR) is the Greater Intermountain Node’s (GIN) monthly Research Discussion Series, spotlighting standout addiction-related research from across the Greater Intermountain community. Designed for dynamic exchange, OTR fosters collaboration and fresh thinking through interactive conversations between presenters and attendees. The series name nods to the stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop and the iconic Utah trails just steps from our offices. Join us for the next OTR on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 12–1 PM MST, featuring “Cannabis: Balancing Risk and Therapeutic Potential” with Marcel O. Bonn-Miller, PhD. Dr. Bonn-Miller will share insights from three key research areas: Cannabis Use Disorder, the therapeutic promise of cannabinoids, and regulatory science. He’ll present findings on cannabis use among veterans with PTSD, explore cannabinoid-based treatments for sleep, anxiety, and substance use disorders, and discuss CBD safety standards and regulatory frameworks. Dr. Bonn-Miller holds a BA and PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Vermont and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford. He launched his research career at the VA and University of Pennsylvania, later leading cannabis research in both academic and industry settings. He now serves as Chief Scientific Officer at Charlotte’s Web and has authored over 175 peer-reviewed publications. Visit the OTR website to learn how to join. Free CME/CE credit available for live attendees.

In this webinar from the Northeast Node's Science Series, Dr. Lynn E. Fiellin will discuss the: Role of Digital Health Games, like those developed by the play2PREVENT Lab, which can serve as effective tools for addressing adolescent mental health and substance use challenges by engaging youth where they are and providing scalable, cost-effective interventions. Impact of User-Centric Game Development and examine the importance of involving adolescents in the design and development process of health-focused video games, ensuring relevance and effectiveness through iterative feedback and collaboration. Efficacy of Evidence-Based Interventions reviewing the methodologies and outcomes of randomized controlled trials conducted to assess the impact of digital health games on health behaviors, such as opioid misuse prevention and mental health promotion among high-risk adolescents.

In this session, Jordan A. Dyett, PhD, LCSW, of the University of Wyoming, will outline the community-engaged research continuum and key methodological considerations for partnering with communities.