Family Insight Evenings

Family Insight Evenings

Family Insight Evenings is a monthly group that provides support and education to adult family members of individuals affected by mental illness. It offers opportunities to learn and practice skills to better support ill family members, meet others who understand, and share insights in a structured environment.

Our Family-to-Family teachers will lead the group. This group is open to adults who have participated in NAMI Family-to-Family or NAMI Family Support Groups. No Registration Required.

Date: November 4, 2026

Time: 6:00 – 7:45 PM

Where: Turning Point (8324 Skokie Blvd, Room 180, Skokie, IL 60077)

Topic: Mental Health and Co-occurring Substance Use

Come join us for a conversation centered around mental health and co-occurring substance use, and speak with two very knowledgeable professionals on the topic.

Jess Jacobsen will provide his personal story and lived experience in dealing with mental health challenges and substance use addiction, otherwise known as dual diagnosis. Jess will share how those issues manifest in his life, how he has learned to recover, and how he has built a productive, fulfilling life.

Matthew Frank will further elaborate on the realities of dual diagnosis through the lens of professional experience as well as pertinent topics related to treating dual diagnosis, such as abstinence vs. harm reduction, helping struggling loved ones who don’t want help, and stigma.

For the rest of the time, Jess and Matt will answer your questions.

Speakers

• Matthew Frank is a licensed clinical social worker, certified alcohol and other drug counselor, and founder of Unity Counseling, PLLC. After earning an undergraduate degree in Criminology and Psychology, Matt worked for NSSRA, which informed his decision to pursue a career in social work. During his master’s program at Loyola University in Chicago, Matt interned for the public defender’s office, urging judges to consider treatment during a defendant’s sentencing when mental health was a significant factor.
• Jess Jacobson earned his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at DePaul University and is a licensed clinical mental health counselor at the Josselyn Center — a community-based mental health center. Jess grew up with mental health struggles, which led to his substance use. Jess’ lived experience with these challenges and recovery inspired his career as a mental health counselor in order to help others with the same challenges. Jess is a mental health advocate, NAMI speaker, and active AA member.