Substance Abuse and Mental Health: A Deadly Combination
Lawyers frequently encounter high-stress environments characterized by heavy workloads, strict deadlines, and the significant responsibility of representing clients. The pressure to achieve positive outcomes can lead to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout. In response, some lawyers may turn to substance abuse as a temporary means of coping with stress, seeking relief from work-related pressures, or addressing underlying mental health challenges.
Join our speakers, Susan B. Ramsey of McLaughlin & Stern LLP, and Cari Guthrie, LCSW-C of Cornerstone Montgomery, as they discuss the root causes of substance abuse among lawyers and recognize potential ethical concerns, which are essential for developing effective support systems.
This webinar will also equip attendees with strategies to maintain their mental well-being within the legal profession and mitigate the risks associated with substance abuse.
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Partner at McLaughlin & Stern LLP
Ms. Ramsey’s professional experience began as a Registered Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at Yale New Haven Hospital. While pursuing her Bachelors’ Degree, she was a Counselor with the New Haven Rape Crisis Program. As a counselor, she counseled sexual assault survivors and performed seminars for local police departments, universities, and high schools. During her time working as a registered nurse, Ms. Ramsey attended law school. Ms. Ramsey graduated from City University of New Law School at Queens College. Susan has published several articles for nursing and legal publications. Ms. Ramsey is an active member of the American Association of Nurse Attorneys, National Crime Victims Bar Association, American Justice Association; Palm Beach County Justice Association; and the Florida Justice Association.
President and CEO at Cornerstone Montgomery
Cari A. Guthrie, MSW, LCSW-C, is a respected leader in behavioral health with over 30 years of experience in community mental health. Since becoming President and CEO of Cornerstone Montgomery in 2012, Ms. Guthrie has led the organization through transformative growth—overseeing strategic mergers, expanding services into Southern Maryland, securing more than $10 million in federal funding, and guiding its designation as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic. With deep clinical expertise, she has implemented a wide range of evidence-based practices at Cornerstone, including Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Supported Employment. Ms. Guthrie has held key leadership roles at Johns Hopkins and Threshold Services, including Program Director, Clinic Director, and Chief Operating Officer. She brings great gravitas to the field—balancing strategic vision with compassion, and championing transparency, accountability, and client-centered care. She currently serves as Board Chair of Nonprofit Montgomery and is an active member of the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary, Community Behavioral Health (CBH), and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. Her contributions continue to shape the landscape and future of mental health care across the region. Cari is the proud mother of two amazing young adults and a firm believer in the power of laughter, curiosity, and partnerships. Her personal values infuse her leadership, marrying strategy and heart—making her a powerful advocate for organizations, people, and progress in the field of mental health. An avid reader, dachshund lover, traveler, and live jazz enthusiast, she draws grounding and joy from these passions in the midst of her busy professional life.
