COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER READY FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR
Community Counseling Center (CCC) is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit behavioral health organization serving the public since 1974. The Center’s Mission is to provide comprehensive behavioral healthcare treatment for anyone in need residing within the five-county region of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve. As a Certified Administrative Agent of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, CCC provides a full array of comprehensive behavioral health services to nearly 7,400 unduplicated patients via 32 programs and nearly 420 staff, including physicians, nurses, directors/administrators, therapists, supervisors, case managers for children and adults, IT technicians, support/clerical staff, billing/accounting personnel, medical records, Genoa Pharmacy and other staff.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) is funded by the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH); Mental Health Boards in Cape Girardeau, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve Counties; fees for services; grants and contracts; third party insurance; self-pay, and private and corporate gifts.
The Center’s Governing Board is comprised of 14 volunteer members representing and residing in its five county catchment area. Eighteen volunteer Foundation members arrange annual funding campaigns and events to assist with the Center’s operational necessities, services and programs.
Community Counseling Center 2016-2017 Strategic Plan
Where We Are Going
Facility Management:
- On completion of 4,000 sq. ft. of new construction property donated by Campbell Mattress Company, we will relocate seven current female patients and three additional female patients to Ridgeway House Intensive Residential Treatment Services.
- On completion 38,000 sq. ft. renovation of the former Life Care Center, we will move our Cottonwood Children’s Outpatient Treatment (16 beds), Cottonwood Administration, Cottonwood Children’s Day Treatment Program and Cottonwood Treatment Family Homes to the new site which will be known as the North Campus. Our new North Campus was partially donated by the Life Care Center Corporations and partially supported by Community Counseling Center’s Foundation.
- Partner with developers and organizations to expand 24/7 Clustered Apartment initiatives in Cape Girardeau, Perry and Ste. Genevieve Counties. These apartments allow for a residential care worker to be on site eight hours per day, seven days a week providing oversight and interventions as specified in a plan of care for our patients who have chronic mental health conditions, histories of multiple hospitalizations and who need substantial support to remain in the community. We are able to provide additional on-site services that foster stability and avert hospitalization. CCC Clustered Apartments include Boehme-Hinni and Athena Apartments (Cape), New Morning Apartments (Fredericktown) and Ste. Genevieve Manor.
- On behalf of the Cape Girardeau Area Housing Committee comprised of representatives from 27 multi-social services and civic entities, we submitted an application to the Missouri Housing Institute to secure funding. If awarded, monies would allow the committee to expand housing options for vulnerable, at risk, homeless and economically disadvantaged populations so that they have safe and affordable housing and to live as independently as possible.
Programs/Services:
- Increase Peer Support Specialist staff to assist other CCC consumers in accessing services and availability of peer group support.
- Expand individual and group counseling for Integrated Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders (ITCD (Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders) to Bollinger and Perry Counties.
- Promote visibility of Stop Needless Acts of Violence Please (SNAP) initiative. Acquire a building on Cape Southside that provides space for offices, programs and outreach resources. The goal is to eventually mirror services (i.e., outpatient therapy, psychiatry, case management, etc.) offered at our Silver Springs office.
- Assume an active role in Cape Girardeau’s initiative, Purpose Built Communities, to rejuvenate Cape’s Southside. If approved, renovation of Cape Southside willmodel East View, a successful housing complex located in Atlanta, Georgia.
- Continue to host and expand the CCC’s Annual Suicide Prevention & Awareness Conference. Our 4th year conference on July 20th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., will be held at the Show Me Center to accommodate nearly 600 plus attendees (i.e., professionals, general public, law enforcement, education, etc.) Free admission and free lunch is offered. Keynote Speakers are Craig Miller and Taryn Aiken.
- Continue to provide and expand Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for law enforcement and the Police Academy at Southeast Missouri State University. CIT curriculum consists of 40 direct clock hours of training and is now mandatory for area law enforcement. The local CIT program has met all requirements for National Certification. Feedback from law enforcement officers is positive, with better end results than prior to training. CIT has significantly altered how law enforcement approaches and responds to individuals appearing to be a threat and to effectively recognize the needs of persons with mental illness and substance use issues. CIT provides officers with local resource information and how to access services.
- Secure a “certified” electronic medical record to meet the requirements of a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). One requirement of CCBHC is to provide medical assisted treatment for patients with substance use disorders. If the Center applies for CCBHC status, we will train our current physicians or secure other options for medical oversight.
- Hire a fulltime Suicide Prevention and Awareness Coordinator/Specialist who will reach out to schools, organizations and the broader community to increase their knowledge and understanding of suicide and their role in reducing suicide statistics.
- Commission On Accreditation Psychiatric Facilities: CCC completed an on-site survey in which 2,052 Standards were reviewed and for which the Center scored 99%, an incredible result. CCC was awarded its fourth, three year Re-accreditation Award.
- Individual Placement Services (IPS): CCC’s IPS program which helps CCC consumers find employment achieved an “exemplary” score for fidelity compliance from the Department of Mental Health. IPS has, and continues to secure employment for numerous consumers at various locations in this region.
- School Based Services: We increased the number of school based mental health therapists and now have two therapists assigned in Cape and Jackson schools and another therapist in Perryville. A therapist alternates between Fredericktown and Ste. Genevieve schools. We have onsite Day Treatment programs in Cape and Jackson schools which are the result of a partnership with schools. The program in Cape is managed at Cottonwood Treatment Center and met capacity enrollment of 14 children early on. Designated school teachers provide education at Cottonwood to children who are unable to attend regular school sessions. Staff assist alternating groups of students who display behavioral and impulse control issues and help them learn socialization and coping skills. The program is intended to serve as a treatment resource for schools and as a resource for children served in the Treatment Family Home Program after they leave Cottonwood. School teachers refer students for CCC counseling and case management services.
- El Nathan Home: We celebrated the opening of our Marble Hill Facility El Nathan which was a partial donation by owner Charles Johnson to Community Counseling Center Foundation. Acquisition of the El Nathan Home came at a time when our Center was in dire need of space for support staff, psychiatrist and nurses, therapists and case managers. El Nathan Home allowed us to move ourPsycho-Social Rehabilitation program on site as well, and for the first time, all of our programs in Marble Hill were housed under one roof.
- Diversion Services: The Department of Mental Health (DMH) approved CCC to begin Transitional Youth Age Integrated Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders (TYA ITCD) program starting July 1st. CCC is the only agency in the State that has been given approval and CCC will assist other agencies with initiating the program and with fidelity reviews from DMH. TYA ITCD is designed for individuals ages 16 to 25 who are assigned to CCC’s Comprehensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center (CPRC) services and who have a substance use problem or disorder.
- CCC’s Adult Integrated Treatment Co-Occurring Disorders (ITCD) program is provided for individuals residing in Cape Girardeau, Madison and Ste. Genevieve Counties who are ages 25 and older and have a substance use problems or disorders. Individuals must also be assigned to our Comprehensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center program.
- Drop In Center: CCC opened its consumer operated and managed Peer Empowering & Educating Respectfully (PEER) drop in center, a program of the Peer Advocacy Board (formerly Consumer Advisory Board). PEER provides resource information and offers groups, including Illness Management and Recovery, Whole Health Action Management, Wellness Recovery Action Plan, and Consumer Operated Service Providers. PEER is open to anyone and is located at 113 S. Silver Spring Rd. #101, Cape Girardeau.
- Supportive Community Living (SCL): CCC developed a plan of action approved by the Department of Mental Health which allows CCC to administer Supportive Community Living funds for consumers who have guardians and/or who are unable to handle their own finances.
- The Brick House: Transitional Living For Young Men and Women: The Brick House has four bedrooms available for youth transitioning into the community. It provides safe housing and an opportunity to learn skills and to live independently. The House provides 24 hour staff support, 7 days per week. Resident Care Workers assist residents with activities of daily living, learning how to properly take medication, budgeting, cooking healthy meals, hygiene and maintaining a clean environment. Individualized treatment plans are designed to meet each youth’s goals for transitioning. Emphasis in developing independent living skills, stabilizing mental health and assuming responsibility are key factors to development, progress, and quality of life.
- The Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) program to train law enforcement officers on how to effectively identify and address the needs of persons with mental illness, and how to access resources that assist and support police officers, continues to expand. The CIT program meets requirements for national certification. CIT curriculum consists of 40 direct clock hours and is now mandatory for area law enforcement. CCC hosted its first annual CIT Appreciation Dinner honoring Law Enforcement for their services. Awards were presented to officers represented in CCC’s five county catchment area. Over 200 attendees participated. Preparation for the Second Annual Appreciation Dinner is underway.
- Zero Suicide Initiative Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention defines Zero Suicide as “a commitment to suicide prevention in health and behavioral health care systems. It is both a concept and a practice.” CCC adopted and upholds the belief that suicide deaths are preventable and has implemented essential prevention practices and training that identify and thwart suicide attempts and completed suicide. We want Zero Suicide to be embedded in the Center’ culture.
- CCC continues to serve as a Field Placement Site for 3rd and 4th year medical students and nurse practitioners who complete their required psychiatric rotations within CCC’s Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center, Suicide Prevention, Diversion Day and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Groups, Outpatient Therapy and Psychosocial Rehabilitation programs. Twelve students have completed their psychiatric rotations at CCC.
- CCC’s consumer operated Gallery of Inspiration art studio held its second benefit silent auction at its location in the Bilderbach Art Plaza. The proceeds provide funds for consumer members of the Gallery’s Art Guild to purchase art supplies.
- Numerous CCC staff and consumers participated in Out of the Darkness Walk to promote awareness about suicide and raise money towards preventing suicides.
Governing Board of Directors
- Three members joined CCC’s Governing Board of Directors for a total of 15 members representing and residing in CCC’s catchment area of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry and Ste. Genevieve Counties.
- Jenny Proctor, representing Bollinger County, was elected to serve on the Policy Committee. She is employed as Producer at Golden Rule Insurance Associates, a Council Member of the University of Missouri Extension Outreach and a CASA Court Appointed Special Advocate for foster kids in Marble Hill.
- Jamie Drury, representing Ste. Genevieve County, was elected to serve on the Policy Committee. She has been employed at Ste. Genevieve R-II School District - Middle/High School Special Education Process Coordination since 1999. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development from SEMO University; a Master of Science in Education-Teaching-MOBAP, a Master of Educational Administration-Principal 7-12 MOBAP and Specialist in Educational Leadership from SEMO.
- Dennis Siders, representing Madison County, was elected to serve on the Finance Committee. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from SEMO and a Masters of Environmental Planning from the University of Tennessee. He was employed as Distribution Center Manager for Miller’s Outpost, Ontario CA; Commissary Manager Domino’s Pizza, Nashville, Tennessee; Manager of Pinecrest Camp and Retreat Center, Farmington, MO; Regional Director for the Midwest Assistance Program (MO, KS, IA, MN). Dennis served in the U.S. Army 1966-68, one year in Vietnam as helicopter medic and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with 19 clusters.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) Foundation 2016 Progress Report Our Foundation grew revenue by 65% in Fiscal Year 2015-2016 to $120,000
Looking to the Foundation Future
Build our events
- Our Annual Wine Festival will be April 7, 2017 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Bavarian Halle, Jackson, MO.
- Our Annual Suicide Prevention & Awareness Conference will be July 20, 2017 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It will be held at the Show Me Center, Cape Girardeau. Keynote speakers will be Craig Miller and Karyn Aiken. Free attendance and a free meal will be provide.
- Our Annual Craft Beer Festival will be held September 30, 2017 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the First State Community Bank Pavilion in Arena Park, Cape Girardeau.
- Our Annual Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) Law Enforcement Appreciation Banquet will be October 19, 2017 at Robinson Construction Hall, Perryville, Missouri.
Strengthen our Leadership and Volunteer Base
- We welcome Chris Edmonds, Element 74; Kara Clark, County; Clerk; Gary Howard, Cape Market President US Bank as members of our Foundation Board.
- Recruit additional strong leaders for our Board of Directors.
- Recruit and actively involve community volunteers in our Foundation events and activities.
Serve our Community
- Cultivate relationships and build awareness within our five-county region in order to generate financial and other resources that support CCC’s capacity to save lives and promote mental wellbeing.
- Join us in supporting the work of Community Counseling Center. Contact Mary Burton at (573) 332-2795 or mburton@cccntr.com for more information.
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COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER CHRISTMAS AT COTTONWOOD
Photo left to right: Shawna LeGrand, Cottonwood Associate Director; Heather Ford, Amy O'Brien, Crystal Parks, AT&T; Karen Mayvield, Cottonwood Financial Advisor.
Every year, Christmas at Cottonwood Inpatient Treatment Center is a festive time with traditional Christmas lights, caroling and presents under the Christmas tree, but for some of the 16 children who temporarily reside at Cottonwood, sadly, it is their first real Christmas. Early on Christmas morning, Cottonwood staff arrange Christmas gifts under the tree for the children. When the children awaken around 6:30 a.m., just like other children, they can hardly wait to open Santa’s presents. At Cottonwood, each child is asked to open his or her gifts while the other children look on. In that way, they learn to appreciate what they have been given. Afterwards, as the children play with their gifts, Cottonwood staff coming off of their midnight shift and staff coming on their early morning shift, prepare a Christmas meal with all the trimmings, including several delicious desserts. Later in day, staff and children share a community Christmas meal held in one of the Cottonwood decorated cottages.
Cottonwood Financial Manager, Karen Mayfield, stated, “I can’t tell you what it is like over the years to have seen the expressions on the faces of these kids when they get Christmas presents. All of the preparation and work to make Christmas happen for them is so worthwhile because some of them have never had a Christmas with family or even had a Christmas present. Cottonwood and the community try hard to make up for that void.”
Shawna Legrand, Associate Director of Cottonwood Inpatient Treatment Center, noted that over the years, several organizations have provided Christmas gifts for Cottonwood children. “Without their generosity, there would be no Cottonwood Christmas.” For three years, the AT&T store and the AT&T local Call Center staff have provided Christmas gifts. This year they donated 48 gifts. Each child will receive three wrapped gifts, including batteries for special toys. For even more years of giving, Cottonwood staff make ornaments with each child’s first name on it and with a gift request. The ornaments are then given to Grace United Methodist Church members who either shop for the gifts or donate money and ask Cottonwood staff to shop for gifts. Church members also provide birthday gifts throughout the year for every Cottonwood child. Cottonwood also provides St. Vincent’s Church in Cape Girardeau with a list of children’s first names and each child’s gift wish. Every Christmas, church members take time out of their schedules to purchase these special gifts.
For 22 years, Charlie Rozier of Rozier’s Mercantile Company in Perryville, has donated a pair of tennis shoes at Christmas for every child residing at Cottonwood. When the cost of tennis shoes increased over the years, the Cape West Rotary members voted Cottonwood as their “charity of choice”. Support from those members and from other local Rotary group members, helped pay for the tennis shoes over the years.
Anne Heisserer and Dr. Ruopp’s office allow Cottonwood to put up a paper Christmas tree with 16 ornaments, one for each Cottonwood child with his or her gift request. Office staff or patients can choose an ornament and purchase a gift for a Cottonwood child. LeGrand noted that another special gift this year was unexpected. Twenty build a bears were donated anonymously. “This is what Christmas at Cottonwood is all about. It is so special and so important for the kiddos, and made possible only through community caring, love and donations. The Cottonwood Family is so blessed to have the outpouring of support from the community, not only at Christmas, but throughout the year. This is significant to their lives and their futures because they know that others, even strangers, care. We alone cannot give them these joyful moments. For children who are unable to be with their families at Christmas and throughout the year, the kindness and love expressed through the caring and giving of the community makes an enormous and heartfelt difference in the eyes of these children. We hope and pray that the community will always remember Cottonwood kids and continue to share their love and support throughout the year.”
About Cottonwood Inpatient Treatment Center
Cottonwood Inpatient Treatment Center, a Community Counseling Center facility, provides a short term (2 to 6 months) inpatient program designed to address the emotional and mental health needs of children and adolescents, ages 6-17, who meet the criteria for severe emotional disturbance. Previously known as Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center, established in 1987, the mission remains the same: To help children and families live and pursue their dreams beyond the limitations of mental illness. Cottonwood Inpatient Treatment Center makes every effort to provide treatment and habilitation in a least restrictive environment to meet the needs of each child served, regardless of race, creed, color, gender, or ability to pay. Cottonwood strives to be the bridge that returns children to their families and to a successful future at home and in the community.
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Monthly Newsletter - Click link
CCC 2016 December.January eNewsletter.pdf
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Monthly Newsletter - Click link
CCC 2016 October.November eNewsletter.pdf
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September 2016
COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER ACHIEVES HIGH LEVEL, THREE-YEAR CARF REACCREDITATION
Community Counseling Center (CCC) has achieved the highest level, Three-Year Reaccreditation Award by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Services (CARF) International. This reaccreditation award demonstrated the organization’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards and represents the fourth consecutive Three-Year Accreditation that CCC has been awarded. The Center underwent a three day, on-site, rigorous peer review process, the result of which verified to the team of reviewers that CCC’s programs and services are of the highest quality, measurable, and accountable. By achieving these accreditations, CCC has demonstrated that it meets international standards for quality and is committed to pursuing excellence.
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process that centers on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) Executive Director, John Hudak, noted “Accreditation is more than a certificate in the lobby. It is more about you [employees] and the fine quality of your work.”
Mr. Hudak noted that 13 separate programs/services were surveyed and accredited:
- Case Management/Services Coordination: Mental Health (Adults)
- Case Management/Services Coordination: Mental Health (Children and Adolescents)
- Community Housing: Mental Health (Adults)
- Community Integration: Mental Health (Adults)
- Crisis Intervention: Mental Health (Adults)
- Crisis Intervention: Mental Health (Children and Adolescents)
- Health Home: Comprehensive Care (Adults)
- Intensive Family-based Services: Mental health (Children and Adolescents)
- Outpatient Treatment : Alcohol and Other Drugs/Addictions (Adults)
- Outpatient Treatment : Mental Health (Adults)
- Outpatient Treatment : Mental Health (Children and Adolescents)
- Governance Standards Applied
Mr. Hudak stated, “Our organization strengths were extensive and summarized in 19 separate points,” several of which are:
- “The staff members are compassionate, well educated, mission driven, and trained and motivated to assist the consumers to live as successfully as possible in their communities. The staff members are enthusiastic, positive, dynamic, and creative in developing and sustaining programs to benefit their community.”
- “The consumers report that the staff members are caring and go the extra mile to respond to their needs. One consumer declared that the staff “Saved my life and turned it around; before, I was like a leaf in the wind.”
- “Many of the programs at CCC provide a continuum of care. This is very desirable as the consumers can be monitored for stability and progress. They can be transitioned to a different level of care if the need arises, with minimal disruption in services.”
Mr. Hudak stated, “We would welcome an opportunity to further acquaint you with our services and respond to your questions. We believe that we are a valuable asset to the communities we serve and all the more valuable because of our CARF accreditation."
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August 16, 2016
Community Counseling Center Celebrates New Location – El Nathan Home
Photo left to right: Mary Burton, Foundation Director; Charles R. Johnson; Nedra Bollinger; Sharon Braun, Director of Public Relations; CEO John Hudak
Community Counseling Center (CCC) has served residents in Bollinger County for over 30 years. CCC’s Cape Girardeau staff traveled to Bollinger County to provide outpatient therapy at the Public Health Department and emergency crisis intervention services. On-call crisis workers evaluated individuals and coordinated inpatient psychiatric hospitalization when warranted. Additionally, crisis intervention and case management services funneled from the Cape office offered support to individuals residing in local boarding homes. Because these services proved to be effectual, the Center recognized the need for adding an office and staff in Marble Hill to provide services. Although CCC’s first location at 606 Highway 34 West was brief, it opened the door for individuals living with mental illness to receive the services they needed and remain living independently in the community.
During 1999, Community Counseling Center (CCC) moved to a more centrally located building at 206 First Street where crisis intervention and case management services for adults and children expanded. In 2000, the Center’s Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) program was launched at 408 Union Street. Not long after, a CCC psychiatrist from the Cape office traveled once a week to Marble Hill where he provided psychiatric services and prescribed medications to patients.
As patient numbers continued to grow, additional programs and staff were necessary to meet the needs of the community. When a double-wide trailer at 208 Broadway became available in 2003, Community Counseling Center (CCC) relocated to that site and broadened its scope of practice to include outpatient therapy. For many years, the trailer served its purpose, but with increased options and demands for mental and behavioral health services, additional programs and staff were added, while at the same time, CCC continually looked for a larger facility to serve Bollinger County residents. Unexpectedly, in 2015 the El Nathan Home facility in Marble Hill became available through a partial donation to the CCC Foundation from El Nathan Home owner, Charles Johnson, who supported the transfer of El Nathan Home to CCC. Because renovations and redesign of El Nathan Home were necessary to accommodate CCC programs and staff, CCC’s Foundation provided funding for these purposes.
Community Counseling Center recently celebrated the El Nathan Home Open House. Charles Johnson and his mother, Nedra Bollinger Johnson, provided the history of the El Nathan Home and presented an original photograph of Abigail Townsend Luffe. Born in 1858, Abigail founded the El Nathan Home in 1901 to serve as a residential care facility for homeless individuals living on the streets of Buffalo, New York. Abigail served as Director of the El Nathan Home until 1938.
In 1953, Mina-Gene Bollinger, Superintendent of El Nathan Home in New York, moved the El Nathan Home to the Administration Building located on the William Mayfield College property in Marble Hill, Missouri. Mina-Gene’s mother and Nedra’s mother, Lottie James Bollinger, who had purchased the Mayfield property in 1942, donated it to the El Nathan Home. Prior to selling the remaining El Nathan property to Johnson in 2014, the El Nathan, Inc. Board of Directors helped make possible the Bollinger County Museum of Natural History and the Mayfield Cultural Center by selling them the Mayfield buildings.
CEO John Hudak of Community Counseling Center stated, “Acquisition of the El Nathan Home came at a time when our Center was in dire need of space for support staff, psychiatrists and nurses, therapists and case managers. The El Nathan Home allowed us to move our Psycho-Social Rehabilitation program on site as well, and for the first time, all of our programs in Marble Hill were housed under one roof. We are eternally grateful and forever indebted to Charlie for entrusting El Nathan to the care of our Center and for the wonderful relationships that we have developed with the Johnsons throughout this process.”
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COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE SINCE 1974
READY FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR
2016
Community Counseling Center (CCC) is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit behavioral health organization serving the public since 1974. The Center’s Mission is to provide comprehensive behavioral healthcare treatment for anyone in need residing within the five-county region of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve. As a Certified Administrative Agent of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, CCC provides a full array of comprehensive behavioral health services to nearly 7,500 unduplicated patients via 32 programs and nearly 350 staff, including physicians, nurses, directors/administrators, therapists, supervisors, case managers for children and adults, IT technicians, support/clerical staff, billing/accounting personnel, medical records, Genoa Pharmacy and other staff.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) is funded by the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH); Mental Health Boards in Cape Girardeau, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve Counties; fees for services; grants and contracts; third party insurance; self-pay, and private and corporate gifts.
The Center’s Governing Board is comprised of 13 volunteer members representing and residing in its five county catchment area. Twenty-four volunteer Foundation members arrange annual funding campaigns and events to assist with the Center’s operational necessities.
Community Counseling Center 2015-2016 Strategic Plan
Facility Management: Ridgeway House, Lou Masterman Group Home and the Marble Hill offices are at the top of the list for the need new facilities.
Safety: Engage law enforcement to assist CCC employees to prepare for the possibility of an incident such as an encounter with a weapon, and to ensure the safety of our employees working in the field.
School Based Services: Increase the number of school based services from 4 therapists, currently one therapist in Cape and Jackson schools, two therapists in Fredericktown and Ste. Genevieve schools. Write a proposal to the Perry County Mental Health Board requesting their help with funding for school based therapy in Perry County.
Diversion Services: Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment (IDDT) currently in Cape Girardeau, Madison and Ste. Genevieve Counties will be expanded to Bollinger and Perry Counties. Ninety percent of our consumers in case managements have some type of substance abuse.
Integrative Health Care: Apply for the Excellence in Mental Health Act of which one key component is integrated health. The first step is to locate a primary medicine facility willing to work with our behavioral health facility.
Supportive Community Living (SCL): Develop a plan of action as the Department of Mental Health wants CCC to administer SCL funds.
Housing: Continue to work with MACO Management as a referral source to fill apartments with individuals living with mental health issues. Engage landlords and law enforcement in conversations regarding mental illness and encourage them to attend monthly housing meetings to gain there input.
Community Counseling Center Highlights March 2015 – February 2016
• Two members joined CCC’s Governing Board of Directors for a total of 14 members representing and residing in CCC’s catchment area.
• David Ramsey of Perryville, representing Perry County, was elected to serve on the Policy Committee. Until his retirement in 2015, he was employed as a high school educator in the Perry County School District, and from 1995 to 2015, he was employed as a college educator at Mineral Area College.
• Wesley Royer of Fredericktown, representing Madison County, was elected to serve on the Finance Committee. Mr. Royer is the Market President for First State Community Bank in Fredericktown where he has been employed for 10 years.
Three psychiatrists joined CCC’s medical staff for a total of 13 psychiatrists/physicians, (including 2 tele-psychiatrists); 10 registered nurses, 8 licensed practicing nurses, 1 Advanced Nurse Practitioner.
• Dr. Brad Robison M.D. is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Diplomate in the Specialty of Psychiatry, Diplomat in the Specialty of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry youth at Cottonwood. Dr. Robison serves youth and adolescents at CCC’s Cottonwood and Private Practice. He holds active affiliation with Southeast Missouri Hospital.
• Dr. Yasmin D. Jilla, M.D. is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology of Psychiatry. Dr. Jilla from Insight provides tele-psychiatry to youth and adults in CCC’s Perryville, Marble Hill and Cape Girardeau offices. She holds active affiliation with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.
• Dr. Asif Qaisrani, M.D., M.P.H is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Active affiliations include BJC Behavior Health, Castlewood Treatment Center, St. Louis University. Dr. Qaisrani joined CCC’s Ste. Genevieve Office in June, 2015 where he provides psychiatric services to children, youth, adults. In January 2016, he accepted the position as Medical Director and directly supervises full time and contracted psychiatric staff and the Directors of Nursing and of Healthcare Home program. Under his leadership, we are in a position to consider necessary and needed services such as Assertive Community Treatment and Inpatient Diversion beds for adults.
• CCC serves as a Field Placement Site for 3rd and 4th year medical students who complete their required psychiatric rotations within CCC’s Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center, Suicide Prevention, Diversion Day and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Groups, Outpatient Therapy and Psychosocial Rehabilitation programs. Eight students have completed their psychiatric rotations at CCC.
• Cottonwood School-based Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program (PSR Junior) was converted to an expanded Day Treatment Program. The Day Treatment Program is the result of a partnership between Community Counseling Center and Cape Girardeau schools. The program is managed at Cottonwood and early on hit capacity enrollment of 14 children. Designated school teachers provide education at Cottonwood to children who are unable to attend regular school sessions. Staff assists alternating groups of students who struggle with behavioral and impulse control issues to learn socialization and coping skills. Cape school teachers refer students so that they can receive counseling and case management services in addition to Psychosocial Rehabilitation Junior services. The Day Treatment Program is intended to serve as a treatment resource for the Cape City Schools and as a resource for children served in the Treatment Family Home Program soon to be implemented.
• CCC’s consumer operated Gallery of Inspiration art studio held its first benefit silent auction at its location in the Bilderbach Art Plaza. The $1,934 proceeds provided funds for consumer members of the Gallery’s Art Guild to purchase art supplies.
• CCC conducted a Job Fair at SEMO University to recruit potential applicants for CCC Community Based Services. SEMO’s Dr. Michael Parker promoted the Job Fair within the Social Work, Family Studies and Criminal Justice Departments
• The Department of Mental Health accepted CCC’s proposal for Supported Community Living (SCL) decentralization. CCC channels and administers SCL and Medicaid funds for pertinent patients, provides oversight of Intensive Residential Treatment Service (IRTS) beds, and assures that state rules are followed. SCL also provides for 10 (IRTS) beds at a local residential care facility.
• CCC’s Lou Masterman Group Home was changed from a licensed Residential Care Facility II to a licensed psychiatric group home which houses 3 Intensive Residential Treatment Service beds and 10 residential care beds.
• The plan for Clustered Apartments submitted to the Department of Mental Health was approved. Clustered Apartments for Adults allow for monitoring and treatment of individuals who are unable to tolerate a congregated living environment or who may require skills in the necessities of daily living. Clustered Apartments support patients residing at the CCC’s Boehme-Hinni (Cape) and New Morning Apartments (Fredericktown), and at the Ste. Genevieve Manor. These apartments house many CCC patients who have chronic mental health conditions, histories of multiple hospitalizations and who need substantial support to remain in the community. The most recent Clustered Apartments are the Athena Apartments opposite of the Cape Girardeau Post Office. It includes an adjoined office. Patients’ rent is subsidized through Supportive Community Living (SCL) funds. A residential care worker is on site six hours per day, seven days a week providing daily oversight and interventions as specified in a plan of care. A Master’s level clinician supervises the care worker and is responsible for coordination of care.
• CCC’s new El Nathan Facility in Marble Hill houses Outpatient, Tele-psychiatry, Comprehensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center and Psychosocial Rehabilitation programs. El Nathan became possible through a donor in Marble Hill and with financial support from CCC’s Foundation. Considerable renovation of the building occurred over 6 months followed by reconstructing the front porch railing, accessibility ramp, and expanding the parking lot an additional 60’ which included parking pads for CCC vans.
• Healthcare Home program added a nurse to work with medical doctor patients only and receive Community Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center services. Six nurses are assigned to Healthcare Home.
• The Center hosted its Second Annual Suicide Conference at LaCroix Methodist Church in Cape. The conference goal is to prevent suicide and increase awareness of suicide issues. Nearly 300 professionals and public sector attended. Keynote speakers were Major General Mark. A. Graham and his wife, Carol, who lost one son to the battle in Iraq and the other son to the battle with depression and suicide. Eleven breakout sessions provided education regarding various mental health and addiction related topics.
• Forty-four CCC staff and consumers participated in Out of the Darkness Walk to raise awareness about suicide and money towards preventing suicides.
• A new upgrade to the Center’s BrightEHR system allows the Center to post write-offs as it bills. CCC became a partner with BrightEHR so that CCC can craft a tailor-made integrated system designed to meet CCC specifications and individual requirements.
• School-based Counseling Program was introduced and expanded to Cape, Jackson, and Ste. Genevieve schools. A fulltime Licensed Professional Counselor provides mental health counseling on site to students who are referred for services by teachers.
• Lou E. Masterman Intensive Residential Treatment Services (IRTS) program provides 3 short-term IRTS beds to serve as an alternative to adult inpatient hospitalization or as a resource for hospitals to shorten in-patient stays. The diversion IRTS beds were implemented in response to the closure of acute inpatient beds at Farmington and Metro Hospitals. The multi-disciplinary approach is designed to treat mental illness and foster personal growth and development. Patients assigned to Lou Masterman Diversion Beds attend the CCC’s Day Diversion Program as another avenue for stabilization.
• Diversion Day Program - Group and Case Management: The Diversion Day Program was implemented in response to the closing of acute inpatient beds at Farmington and Metro Hospitals. The program provides a community-based, coordinated set of individualized treatment services to individuals with psychiatric disorders and who require an increased level of service on an outpatient basis. Comprehensive programming is provided five days a week, including lunch on group days. Group sessions are provided 3 days a week and individual services are provided 5 day a week. CCC’s Co-occurring Day Treatment is under the Diversion Day Program and designed for individuals living with mental illness and substance abuse (co-occurring) issues.
• Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment (IDDT) Group and Individual Therapy: The IDDT model is an evidence-based practice that improves the quality of life for people with mental illness and substance abuse disorders (co-occurring) by combining mental health and substance abuse services. IDDT emphasizes that individuals achieve significant changes in sobriety, symptom management, and independent living via a series of small, overlapping, incremental changes that occur over time. IDDT is a multidisciplinary approach involving pharmacological, psychological, educational and social interventions to address the needs of consumers and family members. IDDT promotes involvement of consumer and family in service delivery.
• Space: Three medical offices were constructed at the Cape location to accommodate patient needs. Two offices were constructed to accommodate increased demands at CCC’s Business & Accounting office on Kingshighway in Cape. In an effort to create additional space in the Cape office for CCC’s Foundation and the Supportive Community Living program, staff in the Community Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center Children’s program were relocated to unused space at the Cottonwood facility which also allows all Cape children’s services to be at one location.
• Cottonwood’s 1st Anniversary luncheon provided an update of programs and successes to nearly 60 attendees. Keynote speakers included Cottonwood’s Dr. Brad Robison, Psychiatrist; Shawna LeGrand, Associate Director; Coyvell Jackson, Treatment Family Home Coordinator; Audrey Burger, CCC Clinical Operations Director. CEO John Hudak provided the Welcome and Closing. Of special note was the significant reduction of hospitalizations. Prior to privatization with CCC, 28 children were hospitalized during 2013, whereas during 2015, one hospitalization occurred under CCC’s watch.
• CCC initiated the Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) program to train police officers on how to effectively address the needs of persons with mental illness and local resources available to assist and support police officers. The local CIT program has met all requirements for national certification. The CIT curriculum consists of 40 direct clock hours and is now mandatory for area law enforcement. The Cape Girardeau Police Department hosted its first presentation. Further programs will be conducted at the Police Academy at Southeast Missouri University.
• Specialization within CCC’s Outpatient program continues as we introduce best practices, including Trauma Informed Care and Parent/Child Interaction Therapy.
Community Counseling Center: Future In the Making
• CCC’s Cottonwood contract with the Department of Mental Health involves (1) providing 16 residential treatment beds for children ages 1-7 and, (2) the provision of two types of treatment homes: Professional Parent Homes and Treatment Family Homes, the distinction of which is based on acuity and age. The Professional Parent Home involves at least one parent who does not work outside of the home. The Treatment Family Homes program serves as a supplement and extension of Cottonwood Residential Treatment and, as such, requires licensing. CCC is in the process of phasing in six Treatment Family Homes over the next 24 months that will serve as an alternative to Intensive Residential Treatment Services (IRTS) beds at Cottonwood. Younger patients may be better served in a family setting versus an inpatient residential facility. These Homes may also serve as a transitional placement for children as they move from the Cottonwood residence environment back to the community.
• Develop plans for marketing CCC services and programs and geared toward attracting highly professional and qualified professionals to join the Center.
• Develop an Intake Division. Review options for bringing patients into the system via a Centralized Intake Process for all CCC programs.
• Gerald Jones, former CEO and Owner of Pyramid Health and former Director of Housing Authorities in Tennessee and Missouri joined CCC as Coordinator and Consultant for Housing Services. A general goal is the coordination of existing housing services and the development of new systems of support for housing through HUD and other State and Federal authorities.
• Expand Clustered Apartments in Perryville and add additional Clustered apartments in Ste. Genevieve. Continue to plan for alternative housing and various treatment housing opportunities for our patients living with mental illness. Coordinate with MACO Management Company, Inc. to house four CCC patients.
• Create and implement inpatient Diversion Beds for adults.
• Preliminary renderings of a floor plan for the proposed new Ridgeway House Intensive Residential Treatment (IRTS) have been submitted. The program will be located on land donated by Campbell Mattress Company. Ridgway House is a specialized treatment program for 10 female residents with chronic mental health diagnoses involving behavioral and emotional issues resulting in guardianship. The cornerstone of IRTS is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills training via group and individual counseling. Patients are referred by Department of Mental Health.
• Psychiatric Individual Supported Living (PISL) architectural plans were submitted for renovation of an two story older home to serve as a residential program licensed by the Department of Mental Health. The PISL will house and assist four highly vulnerable youth ages 18-24 when they transition from State custody through the Division of Family Services or Corrections. The program will provide the support needed to successfully transition into adult life. The Department of Mental Health will pay the cost of renovation of the home.
• Zero Suicide: Mark Stringer, Director of the Department of Mental Health (DMH), proposed Zero Suicide for any patient served by DMH and its Administrative Agents. The initiative involves a comprehensive effort of the whole system to systematically address suicide and its prevention, including rigorous training of all staff (clinicians, case managers, support staff, van drivers, clerks, etc.) and consumers, and being comfortable to ask the right questions at the right time and to make the right referral. CCC has submitted the application to be considered a Zero Suicide prevention site.
Community Counseling Center Foundation
FY 2015 Progress Report
• Purchased the El Nathan real estate to relocate all Bollinger County services under one roof.
• Purchasing $60,000 of additional real estate for El Nathan Facility use.
• Assisted with the planning, execution, and funding of the 3rd Annual Suicide Prevention & Awareness Conference.
• Solicited and provided $44,882 of in-kind donations to support the Center’s programs & services.
• Provided $32,530 in financial support for Center programs & Services.
• Received $20,000 from Wells Fargo for Ste. Genevieve real estate donation.
• Charity of choice for Isle Casino: Six Isle staff members painted Ridgeway Women’s Residential Treatment Center kitchen on April 13.
• Provided new mattresses, new washer and dryer for Ridgeway Women’s Residential Treatment Center.
• Provided Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center children with Christmas party; Christmas gifts; Birthday party and a birthday gift for each child resident; cottage equipment; new bed spreads for each child’s bed; recreational equipment; games, toys, stuffed animals, and clothing for Children’s Services
• Provided 10 mini iPad’s provided for use with children.
• Provided funding for Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program client’s fourth annual holiday parties and gifts for each client.
• Provided two wheelchairs at Center facilities for client use.
• Provided furniture for Lou Masterman Residential Treatment Center.
• Provided furniture for Boehme-Hinni Clustered Apartment clients.
• Funding for recreation outings for Cottonwood, Ridgeway, and Lou Masterman clients.
Looking to the Foundation Future:
Build our events:
• Wine Festival, April 8, 2016, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., Bavarian Halle, Jackson, MO.
• Golf Tournament, TBD, 1:00 p.m. Tee Off, Cape Girardeau Country Club
• Suicide Prevention & Awareness Conference, July 28, 2016, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Cape LaCroix Methodist Church, Cape Girardeau, Keynote speaker, Kevin Bethia
• Craft Beer Festival, October 1, 2016, 12:00 to 4:00 p.m., First State Community Bank Pavilion, Arena Park, Cape Girardeau
• Travel offering to Ireland for October 18-25, 2016 through 1st Class Travel. For more information contact Shari Elfrink 573-651-0088 or shari@gofirstclasstravel.com
Strengthen our Leadership and Volunteer Base:
• Recruit additional strong leaders for our Board of Directors
• Recruit and actively involve community volunteers in our Foundation events and activities
Serve our Community
• Grow support for the vital work of Community Counseling Center.
• Seek opportunities to cultivate relationships and build awareness within our five county region in order to generate financial and other resources that support the Center’s capacity to save lives and promote mental wellbeing.
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February 3, 2016
COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER GOVERNING BOARD WELCOMES WESLEY E. ROYER
Click here for article: Press Release
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December 15, 2015
Mary Ann Otto Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
Click Here for Article: Press Release
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Locked In Mental Illness
Sharon Braun Ph.D is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor employed 10 years at Community Counseling Center. She is currently Director of Public Relations at CCC.
One morning in July as “Jack” was driving the interstate he came to the conclusion that he no longer wanted to live his life and was resolute in ending it that day. While driving he was “locked in”, ruminating about how worthless he was for having lost job after job due to anger and a “short fuse”, a failed marriage, sadness and drinking and self-medicating to erase memories of sexual abuse by his father and step-father. Yes, today he was resolute in ending his life. He spotted an eighteen wheeler pulled off the side of the road with the tailgate down, perfect for driving his car high speed, nonstop into the trailer, and then darkness and nothing else.
If society could but accept the fact that anyone can have a mental illness regardless of race, gender, age, religion, income, or education, and that every family is affected in some way by mental illness, then the world would be a more “normal” place to live. Because biological, neurological, genetic factors, environment, abuse/neglect, trauma are central contributors to mental illness, it is logical to think that mental illness is a “normal condition” of being human and eradicate any notion of stigma. Still, too many people feel shamed by their mental illness and will not share with others that they are struggling or unable to cope with life’s events and demands. Because of the stigma associated with mental illness, many people do not seek the treatment they need and that can ease or alleviate their symptoms, and sometimes “self-medicate” – turn to alcohol and/or drugs to mask the emotional and psychological pain. But that is not the answer because the root cause of distress is not being treated. Overuse of these substances can lead to addictions which exacerbate the illness, and all too often, untreated mental illness and/or addiction (co-occurring) leads to failure in school, loss of employment, destroyed relationships/marriages, declined physical health, and other unwanted outcomes, such as suicide and violence. Additionally, a diagnosis of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other physical illnesses can be devastating and patients are at risk for depression, anxiety, addiction, and suicide. Collaboration of primary care and behavioral health is important and essential to ensure a holistic approach to wellness.
September has long been recognized as Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, and since 1975 advocates have worked hard to organize events such as Out of the Darkness community walks and utilize media and other resources to educate and increase public awareness about the reality of suicide and the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness. In August 2015, the United States President proclaimed September as the National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery month, which seems fitting, as many health professionals and the public sector recognize that suicide, mental illness and addiction often intersect, sometimes resulting in violent acts not only of self but of others as well. However, statistics demand that we work harder to help individuals living with mental illness and/or addiction because too often they lead to suicide.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) noted that, as a nation, we are experiencing a mental health ciris. Sixty million Americans (25%) suffer with mental illness each year. Mental illness causes more disability than cancer and heart disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) reported in 2011 that the rate of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States had decreased or held steady – except for the tenth leading cause of death – suicide. In 2012, the national suicide rate rose two percent to 12.6 suicide deaths per 100,000 population. Missouri’s suicide rate of 15.9% exceeded the national suicide rate, and the average suicide rate of 13.6% for the five counties that Community Counseling Center serves, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve, exceeded the national suicide rate as well. During 2012, more veterans committed suicide than were killed in combat. Today, 25% of suicides are veterans.
Mental Illness and Suicide Statistics – 2012 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 2015 National Council Behavioral Health (NCBH) 2013 World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Mental illness typically strikes young people during their most productive years between ages of 16 to 25 (NAMI)
- 20% of youth ages 13 to 18 and 13% of youth ages 8 to 15 experience severe mental disorders in a given year (NAMI)
- Major depression affects 1 in 12 youth; of those youth, 1 in 14 commit suicide (NAMI)
- Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 25-34 year olds and the 3rd leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds in America (NCBH)
- 6.7% – 14.8 million American adults live with major depression (NAMI)
- 18.1% -- 42 million American adults live with anxiety disorders (NAMI)
- 9.2 million American adults have co-occurring mental health/addiction disorders (NAMI)
- 60% of adults and 50% of youth ages 8 to 15 living with a mental illness did not receive mental health services (NAMI)
- Veterans represent 25% of suicides nationally – about 22 veterans die by suicide daily
- 41,149 suicides were reported in 2013, making suicide the 10th leading cause of death for Americans
- A person dies by suicide in the United States every 13 minutes (CDC) – more than all the yearly victims of wars and natural disasters (WHO)
Cape Girardeau County Mental Illness and Suicide Statistics – 2014 Report for 2012
Hospitalization, no emergency room Emergency Room and Hospitalization
- 676 Mental Illness Primary Diagnosis 75 Mental Illness Primary Diagnosis
- 72 Alcohol Primary Diagnosis 35 Alcohol Primary Diagnosis
- 43 Drug Primary Diagnosis 11 Drug Primary Diagnosis
- 267 Alcohol Related Diagnosis 155 Alcohol Related Diagnosis
- 306 Drug Related Diagnosis 98 Drug Related Diagnosis
Emergency Room, no Hospitalization Suicides and Self-Inflicted injuries
- 714 Mental Illness Primary Diagnosis 12 Suicides
- 144 Alcohol Primary Diagnosis 91 Self-Inflicted Injuries
- 84 Drug Primary Diagnosis
- 320 Alcohol Related Diagnosis
- 307 Drug Related Diagnosis
Psychiatric Services
- 1,624 Adults
- 254 Children/Youth
- Mood Disorder (e.g., Depression, Bi-polar) most prevalent diagnosis
Community Counseling Center Statistics Fiscal Year July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014
- Psychiatry – 2,908 Adults
- Psychiatry – 449 Children
- Outpatient Therapy – 629 Adults
- Outpatient Therapy – 140 Children
- Psychosocial Rehabilitation Center (Case Management) – 414 Adults
- Psychosocial Rehabilitation Center (Case Management) – 130 Children
- Crisis Intervention – 1,245
Suicide Warning Signs
- Depression
- Previous suicide attempts
- Statements “You would be better off without me” or “I wish I were dead”
- Statements “You won’t have to worry about me anymore”, I just can’t take it anymore
- Talking openly about killing oneself
- Having a plan for suicide and/or acquiring the means to carry it out
- Giving away possessions , making out a will, inappropriate saying goodbye
- Suddenly switching from being depressed to very happy or calm for no apparent reason
What You Can Do To Help Someone Living With a Mental Illness or Addiction
- Invite mental health and addiction professionals to speak about these illnesses at the organizations you attend.
- Openly discuss mental illnesses (e.g., depression, bi-polar, anxiety, etc.) and addiction with family, friends, and co-workers. These conversations foster knowledge and awareness about mental illness and addiction and lessen stigma associated with mental illness and addiction.
- Participate in local activities (e.g., Out of the Darkness Walks, memorials, events, etc.) that promote mental health awareness and address stigma associated with mental illness and addiction.
- Be compassionate with individuals living with mental illness and addiction just as you are with individuals diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Anyone can have a mental illness just as she or he can have a medical illness. No one asks for either one.
- Sign up for Community Counseling Center’s Mental Health First Aid Training that teaches you how to recognize signs of mental illness and addiction, a 5-step plan for how to assess a situation and how and where to refer someone for help.
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December 3, 2015
Community Counseling Center On-site Genoa Pharmacy Donates Food to St. Mary’s Pantry
Click Here For Full Article: genoa.docx
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November
24, 2015
CAPE
GIRARDEAU COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER CONSUMERS RECEIVE THANKSGIVING BASKETS
FROM ST. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER
In 1620 when
the harvest failed and the devastating cold of winter set in, nearly half of
the religious refugee pilgrims at Plymouth Colony starved to death, and if it
had not been for the Wampanoag Indians who taught the surviving pilgrims how to
grow corn, beans and squash; how to catch fish and amass seafood, the first
Thanksgiving feast at Plymouth Colony would not have occurred. It was only after
a successful growing season in 1621 that the pilgrims invited Wampanoag Indians to join in celebration and gratitude
for the rich harvest and recompense of soil and water. Together, they gave
thanks.
Just as the Wampanoag
Indians helped the pilgrims in need at Plymouth Colony, and just as the pilgrims
in turn gave thanks by sharing their harvest with the Wampanoag Indians, each
year, for 28 years, Saint Francis Medical Center and its employees have generously
donated 30 to 35 Thanksgiving gift baskets to families in need who reside in
Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) catchment area (Bollinger, Cape Girardeau,
Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve Counties). Over the years, 945 thanksgiving
gift baskets have been given to families in need. This year, 32 gift baskets fed
91 adults and 83 children. Together, they gave thanks.
How does it
work? Each year Community Counseling Center (CCC) Community Support Workers
(CSW) and their supervisors identify families in need of Thanksgiving meals. The
gift baskets are assigned to CSWs who deliver them to their respective families.
Each basket contains a turkey, vegetables, dinner rolls, and a pie – enough for
a family meal. Saint Francis Medical Center donates the turkeys; employees take
up collections for the other basket items.
Monica
Reagan, Supervisor for the Adult Community Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center
(CPRC) program stated, “We are truly blessed at CCC to work with Saint Francis
Medical Center in providing Thanksgiving baskets to some of our clients and
families who would otherwise go without a traditional meal. The clients are
truly appreciative and grateful for the kindness offered every year. Helping
others is why we are all here. Much thanks to Saint Francis Medical Center.” Ms.
Reagan noted that this year, 19 Cape Girardeau adults and 14 children in the
Adult CPRC program, and 9 adults and 14 children in the Children CPRC program enjoyed
Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, a meal that they otherwise would not
have had.
Community
Support Worker, Dana Perkins, noted, “The family that I delivered the
Thanksgiving basket to yesterday was surprised to receive the basket and so very
grateful. The mother gave me a hug for bringing it to them. They were so very,
very happy. Mom teared up and stepdad said they have only one income and it is
hard to feed their family. So this was an awesome idea and a blessing to this
family.”
Community Support Worker Samuel Polivick, noted, "One of my clients mentioned about a month ago that she really would like to have a turkey and a meal to cook for all of the people in her life that she really cares for. This client has a very strong support network in her friends, all of whom are on disability and coping with major illnesses, such as pancreatic cancer and schizophrenia. This group of women is truly inspirational in the way they care of each other in times of need even though none of them are wealthy or have much to spare. When I was able to connect the client with the Thanksgiving gift basket, she was absolutely estatic to be able to surprise her adopted family with a good meal and pleasant holiday. She told me, "Thank you so, so much for thinking of us and helping me to make this a happy day to give thanks for all we have.' As a case manager, it makes me feel very humble and grateful for the love and charity we have in our community to provide a little bit of hope for those among us who struggle."
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November 11, 2015
Community Counseling Center Honors Employee Veterans
Fourteen Community Counseling Center (CCC) employee veterans were honored during breakfasts provided by the Center at its offices in Cape, Fredericktown, Perryville and Ste. Genevieve. CCC staff shared their appreciation and thanked employee veterans throughout the day for their sacrifices and service to our country; for putting their lives on the line to keep us safe from harm.
Group: Christy Owens, Larry Ream, Earl Stovall, Leonard Knapp, Mike Hughey, Mark Pirtle. Right: Rick Strait, Bertha Walker.
The following CCC employee veterans were acknowledged:
- Mike Hester – Army 7 years (Cape Office)
- Mike Hughey – National Guard 6 years in Perryville, active duty Fort Leonard Wood as Specialist 4th Class Combat Engineer Unit (Cape Office)
- Coyvell Jackson – Navy 6 years (Cape Cottonwood)
- Leonard Knapp – Marine Corps 4 years Lance Corporal E-3, Military Occupation Specialty Armor Assault Explosive and Demolition Expert, Hawaii and two deployments to Okinawa and Mt. Fuji, Tokyo (Cape Office)
- Christy Owens – Navy 3 years Aviation Store Keeper of Aircraft Engines E-3 Lemoore, California (Cape Office)
- Mark Pirtle – US Army 3 years 3rd Battalion 7th FA, 25 ID Schofield Base, Hawaii (Cape Office)
- Paula Polaski – US Army 4 years E-5, Fort Lee, Virginia; tour of duty South Korea (Fredericktown Office)
- Larry Ream – US Army 2 years in Viet Nam, Sergeant Air Calvary LRRP Unit Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol (Cape Office)
- Gary Ruebke – Air Force 3 years (Ste. Genevieve Office)
- Bill Seacrist – Air Force 4 years (Cape Office)
- Cal Sherman – US Army 1 year (Cape Office)
- Earl Stovall – Navy 4 years E-5 active duty Hospital Crops in Naples, Italy; Japan, Okinawa, Philippines; one year on the USS Piedmont (Cape IT Office)
- Richard Strait – Marine Corp 3 years #-3 Cherry Point, North Carolina (Fredericktown Office)
- Bertha Walker – Navy 4 Years (Perryville Office)
CEO, John Hudak, “We are very honored and blessed to have these men and woman on our staff. They not only have courageously served our country, but they have steadfastly served our Center and our consumers in the same diligent manner. We admire and thank them for who they are and what they do.”
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October 19, 2015
COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER GOVERNING BOARD WELCOMES DAVID W. RAMSEY
The members of the Community Counseling Center (CCC) Governing Board of Directors elected David W. Ramsey of Perryville, Missouri, as a new Board member representing Perry County. Mr. Ramsey has chosen to serve on CCC’s Governing Board Policy Committee. He states, “My interests have always been in psychology and art. My educational background has been in these areas, as well as, my teaching career. Since I am no longer teaching, my interest is to aid and assist the mental health profession in any way possible.”
Until his retirement in 2015, Mr. Ramsey was employed as a high school educator in the Perry County School District from 1977 to 2004 and as a college educator at Mineral Area College from 1995 to 2015. In 1999, he and his wife became co-owner of the Ponderosa Steakhouse (S&R Investment Properties) in Perryville, Missouri.
Mr. Ramsey graduated from Farmington High School in Farmington, Missouri. He received formal education at Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Missouri, where he earned an Associate of Arts degree, at Southeast Missouri State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Art Education/Psychology and a Masters in Art Education and a Specialist degree in Administration. Mr. Ramsey was also enrolled in the gifted and talented coursework program at Southeast Missouri State. He completed the Leadership Academy at Missouri University/State Department in Columbia, Missouri.
Mr. Ramsey’s civic and faith affiliations include Charter Member of the Elks Lodge, Past Master of the Masonic Lodge, Board of Directors for Masonic Home of Missouri, Methodist Lay Minister and held various Chair positions at his local church. He is a life member of the National Rifle Association.
Mr. Ramsey has resided in Perryville since 1975. His wife, Kathe M. Ramsey, was also a teacher at Perry County Schools and Mineral Area College. They have two daughters, Dr. Michelle (Chuck) Durham, O.D., and Celeste (Marc) Spickert, Structural Engineer. Their grandchildren are Grey and Tripp Durham and Kyla and Nolan Spickert.
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09-25-15 COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER WALKS FOR SUICIDE AWARENESS
Over 500 participants joined family, friends, co-workers and others to participate in Cape Girardeau’s 5th Annual Out of the Darkness Walk at North Cape County Park. Each year, thousands of people throughout the country participate in the walks to raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) whose vision is to create a world without suicide. These walks honor loved ones lost to suicide, raise funds, build awareness and help prevent suicide. AFSP has promoted Out of the Darkness walks since 2004 as an avenue by which survivors of suicide loss can be involved in a variety of educational, outreach, awareness, advocacy, and fundraising programs.
The 2015 Out of the Darkness Walk in Cape Girardeau raised over $15,000, of which $1,215 was raised by Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) team. CCC’s Medical Records Manager, Penne James, was CCC’s highest fundraiser at $600. Prior to the walk, each team captain announced the name and shared a photo of the loved one or friend being honored whose life was lost to suicide. Teams began their walk at noon around the North County Park pond. Monica Reagan, CCC’s Team Captain, noted, “Our team had 44 participants including CCC staff and clients. This was our second year for CCC to have a team. Both years we have been #2 in raising funds. We raised additional funds this year by incorporating other fundraising events throughout the year, such as, CCC’s Snack Shop, Dexter BBQ Night 10% of proceeds, and CCC’s Direct Sales Fair to staff and clients. We hope to keep fundraising throughout the year for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Walk and to help fund CCC’s annual Suicide Prevention and Awareness Conference. My goal is to raise enough money to be #1 next year, but more importantly, to spread awareness and to advocate for our clients, staff, friends, family, and the community at large. Together we can make a huge difference.”
Laura Matlock and Amber Hinkle coordinated the Out of the Darkness Walk. Community Counseling Center team members helped plan events of the day, including the “Why We Walk” display on which participants posted photographs of loved ones whose lives were lost to suicide. Each participant announced the name of their loved one and released a balloon in memory of them. In an effort to bring awareness of suicide to the forefront and to encourage and help the community talk openly about mental illness and suicide, two guest speakers shared their stories of how suicide of a family member and of a friend touched their lives. Another guest speaker, a suicide attempt survivor, told her story from that perspective. All of these Out of the Darkness Walk initiatives help to decrease stigma associated with mental illness and suicide.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the National Council for Behavioral Health statistics on suicidal behavior in the United States for the years 2012 and 2013 among adults aged 18 or older:
- Nearly 1.3 million people attempt suicide annually
- Occurs every 13 minutes
- Claimed 41,149 lives, making it the 10th leading cause of death
- 2nd leading cause of death among 25 to34 year olds
- 3rd leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds
- 4th leading cause of death in the United States among adults 18-65
- Highest suicide rate was among 45 to 64 year olds
- Accounts for 16% of deaths of individuals ages 65 and older
- Military members, one suicide per day
- Military veterans, 25% of suicide deaths annually
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) views suicide as a public health issue that does not discriminate by age, gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status; one that takes an enormous toll on family, friends, co-workers and the entire community. AFSP is the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and to reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. AFSP Out of the Darkness walks raise funds (82 cents of every dollar) that can be used towards AFSP’s Five Core Strategies:
- Educate the public about mental disorders and suicide prevention
- Fund scientific research
- Promote policies and legislation that impact suicide and prevention
- Provide programs and resources for survivors of suicide loss and people at risk, and involve them in the work of the Foundation
- Offer educational programs for professionals
AFSP monies supported the Cape Girardeau community in several major events. AFSP sponsored the 1st and 2nd Annual Southeast Missouri Suicide Prevention and Awareness Conferences attended by 254 and over 500 professionals and public, respectively. Community Counseling Center (CCC) co-hosted both conferences. AFSP also provided funding for CCC staff to be trained in Mental Health First Aid for Adults and for Youth, thereby allowing them to train members in society on how to (1) identify signs of mental illness and suicide ideation, (2) ask someone if s(he) is okay and, (3) help someone get assistance if s(he) needs it.
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September 24, 2015
ANNUAL SUICIDE
PREVENTION & AWARNESS CONFERENCE A BIG SUCCESS
Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) 2nd
Annual Southeast Missouri Regional Suicide Prevention & Awareness
Conference was held at Cape LaCroix Methodist Church in Cape Girardeau. CCC
employee, Rick Strait, Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Board
Certified Counselor, coordinated the conference. “The conference was a huge
success. Over 300 professionals, consumers, survivors, attempt survivors and
community members came together for one common goal – to stop suicide. We
all know of people struggling with depression and possibly suicidal thoughts. As
a community, we need to educate ourselves so that we can help those
individuals. When we join forces and do our part, we will make a difference. ”
The American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention funded the conference lunches and Mental Health First Aid trainings
and books. Community Counseling Center Foundation provided funding for the
keynote speakers, Retired Major General Mark Graham and his wife, Carol. The Grahams have dedicated their lives to
sharing their story of losing both of their sons to different types of battles.
Kevin, a University of Kentucky Senior Army ROTC scholarship cadet who studied
to be an Army Doctor, struggled with depression and lost his fight to suicide in
2003. Jeffery, a scholarship student who graduated from the University of
Kentucky with a degree in civil engineering was commissioned Lieutenant in the
US Army as an Armor Officer. While leading a dismounted patrol in Khadliyah,
Iraq, he was killed in 2004 warning his platoon of an Improvised Explosive
Device.
Carol noted the extreme contrasts in
burials of their sons. “When our son Jeffery died in battle, the church was
overflowing and there was great honor and pride, but when our son Kevin died by
suicide, we felt much shame in losing him. There was so much stigma that
members of the church thought there should be no service at all.” Major General
Graham stated, “We were part of the stigma. We didn’t know how serious
depression was and missed the red flags; the warning signs of suicidal behavior
and ideation. I didn’t know you could
die from being too sad. We saw life through rose colored glasses and thought we
had a Walt Disney life. Nothing prepared us for the past 12 years. In order to
survive, we use our brokenness to help others. Our mission and purpose is to
make the world a better place and to help families learn about mental illness
and suicide so they don’t have to go through what we did in losing a son to
suicide.”
The 2nd Annual Suicide
Prevention and Awareness Conference trainings included:
- Vicarious Trauma: The Dangers of Helping Others
- Staying Safe: The Power of
Collaborative Safety Planning and Follow Up
- Understanding and Reconciling Suicide Grief
- Adolescent Panel Discussion - Children
With Mental Health Issues
- Connect, Accept, Respond, Empower
(CARE): How to Support LGBTQ Youth
- Working with PTSD Through Proactive,
Focused Activity
- Discussion of Emergency Mental
Health Resources and Court Order Process
- Words DO Hurt – Taking the “DIS”
Out of Functional Language
- Compare and Contrast Between
Adolescents and Adults for Suicide Statistics, Prevention, Treatment
- Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR)
- A Taste of Mental Health First
Aid (MHFA): How MHFA Can Help Reduce Suicide.
Representatives from American
Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) presented awards to individuals
working diligently with suicide prevention and awareness initiatives. AFSP notes
that the United States is experiencing a mental health crisis. The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) reported in 2012 that the national
suicide rate rose two percent to 12.6 suicide deaths per 100,000 population.
Missouri’s suicide rate of 15.9% exceeded the national suicide rate, and the
average suicide rate of 13.6% for the five counties that Community Counseling
Center serves (Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve) also
exceeded the national suicide rate. During 2012, more veterans committed
suicide than were killed in combat. Today, 25% of suicides are by veterans.
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August 27, 2015
COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER’S IPS PROGRAM NOMINATED FOR JOHNSON & JOHNSON 2015 TRANSFORMATION AWARD
Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) Individual Placement Support (IPS) program has been nominated for the Johnson & Johnson – Dartmouth IPS Learning Community 2015 Transformation Award. Johnson & Johnson sponsors the IPS program. Started in 2012 at CCC, the Center’s IPS program is an evidence-based practice of supported employment that helps individuals living with severe mental illnesses to be employed at regular jobs of their choosing. Since 2013, IPS has placed 76 consumers in employment positions.
Community Counseling Center staff recognized that employment for its consumers is in itself a mental health intervention that could aid in consumers’ recoveries and wanted to tackle stereotypic thinking of “their illness prevents them from working”, “they can’t handle the pressure”, and “they just shouldn’t work”. Wayne Petitt, IPS Employment Services Coordinator, states, “We want to foster change in the minds of people in the community who think people with mental illness cannot hold jobs. We want to help our consumers integrate back into the community. Most of these consumers are on Disability and live on $750 a month. Having part-time jobs not only supplements their income but increases their self-esteem. It just makes sense to help them find employment and have the support they need to remain stable and living independently in the community.”
The success of the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program is a testament to the dynamic collaboration between Missouri’s Division of Behavioral Health and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Representatives of both Divisions conducted workshops together and invited regional Vocational Rehabilitation to participate so that everyone was trained in the program at the same time. The IPS Supervisor and the Employment Specialist (ES) were great advocates with positive attitudes. Their enthusiasm helped change attitudes and alleviate doubts about consumers working regular jobs – just like anyone else. Any setback was viewed as a learning experience rather than a loss.
The first consumer helped using the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and living in a group home. With the Employment Specialist assistance, the consumer found a job at a restaurant in the community and worked there for over two years. He received awards for his work and earned raises based on his job performance. Another consumer is now assisting his employer in expanding his business.
Petitt notes that Community Counseling Center’s success with the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program can best be summed up as, “One by one, job after job, the people who are served by IPS supported employment win the confidence of our staff and community. Each job is another stigma put to rest and every success story helps build the self-images of the people we serve. Thanks to the administration’s support, the hard work of the IPS staff, and consumers’ belief and investment in themselves, CCC has created a culture that never questions what people can do; rather, we ask what people want to do and how we can work together to make it reality.”
John Hudak, CEO of Community Counseling Center, states “We have long been advocates for consumer development and recognize that consumer employment is a key element to one’s recovery. Employment allows our patients to continue living independently in the community. That’s just one of the reasons why we are so enthusiastic and supportive of our Individual Placement Support program (IPS). The IPS program upholds our Mission, to help anyone in need to make their lives better, and IPS has certainly played a huge role in transforming the lives of many of our patients.”
Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment includes the following characteristics:
- An evidence-based practice
- Emphasis that work can promote recovery and wellness
- IPS practitioners focus on strengths
- IPS practitioners collaborate with State Vocational Rehabilitation
- Utilizes a multidisciplinary team approach
- Services are individualized and long-lasting
- IPS approach transforms how mental health services are delivered
- Met State of Missouri fidelity review standards
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August 9, 2015
COMMUNITY COUNSELING CENTER ON-SITE GENOA PHARMACY EMPLOYEES DONATE BACK PACKS and SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Photo: Heather White and Danielle Robbins, Technicians; Whitney White, Pharmacy Manager
Community Counseling Center (CCC) and CCC’s on-site Genoa Pharmacy employees held their 4th annual school supply drive during July. Employees donated four filled backpacks and eight large boxes of school supplies to Hope Children’s Home in Jackson, this year’s recipient. The backpacks and school supplies help support Hope Children’s Home foster care circuit of nearly 275 children living in Cape and Jackson foster care homes and attending Kindergarten through High School.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) and Genoa Pharmacy employees donated crayons, glue, pencils, pens, erasers, binders, markers, rulers, white and colored copy paper, notebooks, folders, protractors, index cards, and numerous other necessary school supplies. Employees who donated school items earned one entry in raffle drawings to win gift cards for a dinner and a movie. Donated backpacks were the exception – earning 5 entries in raffle drawings. CCC’s Pat Teder, Administrator Assistant, and Amye Kilmer, Nursing Supervisor in CCC Psychiatry, both won $25 gift cards.
Whitney White, Genoa Pharmacy Manager, noted “Genoa has always supported community programs, programs we know a lot about and utilize mutual health services. Some of the kids who received these backpacks were so excited, especially the kids who said this was the first time ever that they had school supplies or a backpack, much less a brand new full of school supplies. Hearing them say this makes it all so worthwhile.”
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Sharon Braun Ph.D is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor employed 10 years at Community Counseling Center. She is currently Director of Public Relations at CCC.
STIGMA AT A SNAIL’S PACE
For several years “Tom” held a prominent job and considered himself to be successful in the field of finance. He was happy, had good friends, enjoyed life. Without warning, his behavior and life changed dramatically. Job performance declined, relationships lost. His sudden and contrasting shifts from extreme euphoria to severe sadness unsettled others. He was shunned. Tom was living Bi-Polar Disorder and the mindless stigma that accompanies mental illness.
What does stigma look like? An employee at a behavioral health organization where he received mental health services presented his story of recovery to local service organizations so that attendees could gain knowledge and understanding of mental illness. The CEO scheduled these presentations and accompanied the employee to provide an overview of programs and services. The employee was well liked, professional, personable and well-spoken; an unassuming and inspiring man whose story prompted interest, empathy, and an abundance of queries about mental illness. On one occasion they were scheduled to present to a women’s service organization held in a member’s home, but when the host learned that one of the speakers had a mental illness, she informed the CEO that he was welcome to present but not the man with mental illness. When asked why, she said, “If he comes in my home once, I’m afraid he’ll return and do harm.” This man was Tom.
Starting in 1949, May has been observed as National Mental Health Awareness month. Advocates work hard to bring mental health issues to the forefront and to tackle stigma associated with mental illness. Supporters organize walks, memorials and utilize media to raise awareness about mental illnesses and suicides, but after 66 years of effort, society has barely budged beyond the conviction that mental illness is a “disorder” equating with “un-normal”, in spite of the fact that 25% or 60 million Americans experience mental illness each year, and the fact that mental illness causes more disability than cancer and heart disease. Mental illness is common!
Why does stigma persist? Historical language used to describe mental illness primed the underpinnings of stigma. The terms “crazy”, “lunacy” became synonymous with insanity. To its credit, the classification of mental illnesses in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the “Bible” of psychiatric diagnoses, lessened confusion and provided a common language by which mental health professionals communicate. To its discredit, the generational language used by the mental health community has added to the stigma. Over time, professionals have learned that labeling of certain pathologies perpetuates stigma and causes harm. Sadly, stigma continues to strike its victims.
Anyone can have a mental illness regardless of race, gender, age, religion, income, education. Every family is affected by mental illness. Biological, neurological, genetic factors, environment, abuse/neglect, trauma are contributors. Due to the stigma associated with mental illness, some people feel shamed and do not seek treatment that can ease and alleviate their symptoms. Some “self-medicate” with alcohol/drugs to mask emotional and psychological pain. But that is not the answer because the root cause of distress is not being treated. Untreated mental illness/addiction leads to failure in school, loss of employment, destroyed marriages, declined physical health, and other unwanted outcomes.
Mental Illness/Suicide Statistics – 2012, 2013
- Mental illness typically strikes young people during their most productive years, ages 16 to 25
- 20% of youth ages 13 to 18 experience severe mental disorders in a given year; 13% ages 8 to 15
- 60% adults, 50% youth ages 8 to 15 did not receive mental health treatment
- 12.6 suicides per100,000 population every 40 seconds – more than all the yearly victims of wars and natural disasters; highest toll among elderly
- Veterans represent 20% of suicides – 22 suicides daily
- Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death – every 12.8 minutes
What You Can Do
- Invite professionals to speak about mental illnesses at your organizations.
- Openly discuss mental illnesses (depression, bi-polar, etc.) with family, friends, co-workers to foster knowledge/awareness about mental illness.
- Participate in Out of the Darkness Walks, memorials.
- Be compassionate with individuals living with mental illness/addiction as you are with individuals diagnosed with cancer or heart disease. No one asks for either one.
- Sign up for Mental Health First Aid Training – learn to recognize signs of mental illness, how and where to refer for help.
- Use language that respects the worth and dignity of all persons.
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May 3, 2015 Community Counseling Center Receives Heart of Social Work Agency Award from SEMO University
Each year the Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) Department of Social Work presents the "Heart of Social Work Agency Award" to a social service organization that has demonstrated exceptioinal dedication and service to social work education and excellence in field instruction. Students and faculty of the Department of Social Work nominate field agencies. The award recipient is chosen by the faculty of the Department of Social Work.
Past recipients of the Heart of Social Work Agency Award have been Community Caring Council, Southeast Missouri Alliance for Disability Independence, Southeast Missouri Mental Health Center, Poplar Bluff R-1 Schools, and Missouri Delta Medical Center.
Natalie Sandoval, MSW of Southeast Missouri State University Department of Social Work announced, “This year we selected Community Counseling Center's Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) program to receive this award. PSR has shown dedication to our students by providing numerous years of field instruction as well as an excellent growing environment. The assistance that Dr. Del McKinney provides in getting our students ready for their placements and the awesome supervision that PSR Manager, Emily Schott, provides during our students’ field placements, has proven to be a wonderful learning experience.
When students are referred for internships at Community Counseling Center (CCC), Dr. Del McKinney, Coordinator of the Internship Program, meets with and screens Bachelor and Master level applicants to secure suitable placement in various CCC programs. Dr. McKinney also provides orientation to the Center’s policies and practices. Twice monthly he facilitates a student focus group for all interns to discuss internship questions and issues and a CCC administrator provides an overview of her or his position requirements so that interns gain a better sense of what CCC is about and the Center’s operations. For the fall semester, there are 10 intern students from various programs, including Counselor Education, Social Work, Occupational Therapist, Psychology, and Family Studies. Referring schools include Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC), University of Missouri (UMSL), and Missouri Baptist University (MBU).
Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) program provides a variety of supportive and rehabilitative services to individuals living with severe mental illness. In order for a consumer to be part of the PSR program, s(he) must first be receiving services in the Comprehensive Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center (CPRC) program and assigned a case manager. PSR offers consumers opportunities for educational, career, social and recreational activities on site and in the community. The program serves adult clients ages 18 years and older, and operates five or more days each week with evening activities often planned. Currently, there are 171 members enrolled in PSR. Vans owned by CCC transport members to the PSR and to community based activities. PSR programs are provided in Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve Counties.
Claudette Reagan, the Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Coordinator for Community Counseling Center’s PSR programs stated, “Receiving the Department of Social Work award is a great honor. We work hard to help our consumers grow and reach for their goals, and the interns that SEMO sends to us are part of that process and success. I am so proud of the PSR program and staff.” They come here not knowing what PSR is about, and while they are learning they do everything full staff does as part of the learning process. ”
According to Ms. Reagan, several SEMO Departments, including Social Work, Psychology and Human Environmental Studies refer students to the Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) program for semester internships. “The students get a full array of experiences and have to work like any full time staff. At first they are apprehensive, but by the end of their internships they have learned that people living with mental illness just have an extra thing going on.” Ms. Reagan notes that the College of Nursing and SEMO’s Nursing Department rotate two nurses at a time to spend a day at PSR. Reagan said that one of the biggest challenges for students is coming from text books and classrooms, then walking into an action packed, 6 hour job – living it, seeing it, working it. It is an eye opener when students walk away at the end of the day because they had no idea so much happens at PSR.” Ms. Regan became the PSR Coordinator in 2009 for Community County Center’s five county offices (Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madison, Perry, Ste. Genevieve), and she has supervised many interns throughout the years. When asked what she would like her legacy to be, she stated, “that PSR is no longer a well-kept secret.”
Emily Schott, the Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Program Manager helps interns acclimate to the PSR site and assists them with understanding the various activities scheduled on PSR’s Independent Living and Daily Living Skills calendars. “This is important because interns are expected to assist with all activities, just as employed staff perform. No two days are the same. There is no setting around and interns are always busy.” In addition, each intern is required to prepare a meal so that s(he) understands how hard it is to cook a meal for so many PSR members, as does the consumer who prepares daily meals for all attendees. “The whole internship is designed to be experiential so that students not only learn what happens in the real world of PSR, but so they also learn and know what they are doing when they go to work in the field of helping others.”
Internships at PSR provide an opportunity for students to apply book knowledge to the workplace setting. It gives them an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, develop skills, become leaders, and learn to be a team player, interact professionally, and build relationships, all of which are expectations and requirements of internships. On site supervision at Community Counseling Centers’ Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Program is provided on a regular basis by PSR staff and, for some education departments, by professors. Interns’ performance is evaluated throughout the semester via regular supervision, the blend of which cultivates successful completion of internship and graduation.
Natalie Sandoval of Southeast Missouri State University Department of Social Work noted, “Community Counseling Center (CCC) has been a wonderful partnering agency for Southeast Missouri State University’s Social Work Department for many years. They have provided placements within many sectors of the agency, as well as, their numerous geographic locations. Their partnership is deeply valued by the SEMO Social Work Department.”
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February 19, 2015
Cottonwood Privatization Update to Jackson Kiwanis Members
CEO John Hudak of Community Counseling Center (CCC) provided an update to Jackson Kiwanis Club members regarding the privatization of Cottonwood Children’s Residential Treatment Center in Cape Girardeau. Hudak noted that due to State budget constraints which led to the threat of Cottonwood closing, the community rallied and gathered nearly 4,000 signatures to keep Cottonwood’s doors open. Elected State Officials Kathy Swain, Wayne Wallingford, Donna Litchenneger and others negotiated with the State to find a way to keep Cottonwood open. During the interim, Hudak contacted the Department of Mental Health (DMH) to offer Community Counseling Center (CCC) services in any way it could to keep Cottonwood from closing. “As the Administrative Agent of DMH in this area, the end result was that CCC would operate and oversee restructuring of Cottonwood.”
Hudak said that when he extended the offer to the State for Community Counseling Center (CCC) to assist with services as a means to keep Cottonwood functional, he had not anticipated that the CCC would be Cottonwood’s lifeline, but that being the case, a primary focus was to work with Cottonwood staff to maintain the integrity of services. At that point in time, many Cottonwood staff had already found new jobs because it had previously been announced that Cottonwood would be closed. “A real question was, how could CCC as a not-profit behavioral health organization compete with State salaries and benefits that Cottonwood staff were accustomed to receiving? As it turned out, CCC’s salaries were comparable to Cottonwood salaries, and the majority of remaining staff were so committed to Cottonwood and accustomed to working with these kids that they opted to compromise with benefits and stay on. Forty-eight remained.”
When Cottonwood was established during the late 1980s, it was staffed for 32 beds. When Cottonwood was transferred to Community Counseling Center (CCC), beds were limited to 16. Hudak said that because Cottonwood was set up as an Inpatient Diversion Program by the State, and due to a recent Medicaid ruling regarding this type of program, the number of beds allowed is limited to 16 in a residential location. All 16 beds are full at Cottonwood.
Since January 3rd when Community Counseling Center (CCC) took over Cottonwood, “It is incredible the number of people involved with making this [Cottonwood] work. We’re very excited with what’s happening.” When Dr. Brad Robinson heard about the privatization of Cottonwood and CCC taking over operations, he met with us to determine if, and in what capacity, he might come on board and become a part of Cottonwood. “Brad met with us because of his love for Cottonwood kids. He’s [Robinson] an excellent psychiatrist who previously worked at Cottonwood and who for many years has devoted his private practice to kids and adolescents. Brad told me that in all the years of practice, he never hospitalized a child because he believes there are other ways to keep children in crisis with their families, mainly by working closely with the parents or guardians. We are so very happy and proud to have Dr. Brad Robinson as the Medical Director at Cottonwood.”
Prior to privatization of Cottonwood, children were seen once monthly by two psychiatrists who traveled from St. Louis. All of this has changed as a result of Dr. Robinson. As the Director of Cottonwood, he wants to be on call 24/7 so as to improve the lives of Cottonwood kids. Dr. Robinson is available during crisis situations but he also likes to talk with the kids and play ball and other activities with them as well. According to Hudak, Dr. Robinson believes that staff at Cottonwood can provide the same treatment here that can be offered in hospitals.
“Some kids can’t make it at home or school. We have the most difficult kids on our caseloads. If unattended they will have hospitalizations and disruption in their lives.” Hudak noted that, in response, “Community Counseling Center (CCC) and Cape County schools formed a partnership because we realize that some children schooled on the campus at Cottonwood are put at risk when they try to transition back to regular school settings.” Cottonwood children in the Day Program who receive education on site at Cottonwood, gradually transition back to regular school. When children at school return each day to Cottonwood, they meet individually with a therapist to process events of the day and extend assistance if needed.
On average, children at Cottonwood remain in treatment close to the entire school year so that they can complete a full school year. The most at risk children require attention and service. Hudak said that, characteristically, children are seen by many providers and continuity in services is lacking. Dr. Robinson’s vision and plan is for staff at Cottonwood to commit to the children 5 or 6 years, and that children who leave Cottonwood may return for further treatment when needed. “Services will be provided by the same physician, the same therapist, and the same staff; all working together for continuity of care. Instead of building concrete walls around them, we want to build walls of people around them; the same providers along the way because this stability makes treatment better and, in turn, makes the kids feel safe. Our ultimate goal is continuity of care involving the psychiatrist, therapists, case managers, and other professionals.”
The Department of Mental Health (DMH) continues to support the transition to privatization. Cottonwood property includes 6 buildings: An administration building and 5 cottages. Two cottages will be used for children in residents. A third cottage will be used to house a Day Treatment program. Options for utilizing the remaining two cottages are being considered.
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December 16, 2014
Cape Rotary and Perryville Rozier's Mercantile Company Donate Shoes to Children at Cottonwood
A True Christmas Story – It all started in the late 1980s when Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center was established in 1987 and operational for housing 40 children ages 6-18 who struggled with psychiatric disorders and/or severe emotional disturbances. According to Cottonwood Quality Assurance Coordinator, Marylene Elliott, “Oftentimes, these children entered Cottonwood wearing shoes that were either too large or too small to fit their feet. The 1980s was an era when kids could be ‘cool’ if they wore certain types of shoes, and this was important for Cottonwood children too."
Cindy Gaines, Education Liaison at Cottonwood sent a letter of need to many local shoe stores requesting help with supplying shoes for Cottonwood children. When Charles (Charlie) Lottes read the letter, he knew that he wanted to help. As a co-owner of the locally owned Rozier’s Mercantile Company in Perryville, he responded on behalf of the Mercantile. Not only did he respond, but he offered to provide shoes at no cost for Cottonwood children. Ms. Elliott noted that Cottonwood requested tennis shoes for the children because they needed them for recreation therapy and other play activities. However, the story does not end there.
For 20 years, Rozier’s Mercantile Company donated shoes at no cost to Cottonwood. During the early years, there were 17 or 18 children residing at Cottonwood. Charlie knew that he always wanted Cottonwood children to have shoes at Christmas, but in 2009 when Cottonwood’s census rose and the cost of tennis shoes soared to $1,740, he decided to solicit financial assistance from various local organizations to help pay for the shoes. The Cape Girardeau Rotary stepped up to the plate and voted Cottonwood as their “charity of choice”. With the exception of this year, every year thereafter the Rotary donated $500 towards the purchase of tennis shoes from Rozier’s Mercantile Company. Because the current maximum census allowed at Cottonwood is 16, this year the Rotary donated $250.
Cottonwood children receive their tennis shoes each year during a Christmas luncheon held at Cottonwood’s gym. This year, Karen Mayfield, Cottonwood’s Accountant and Interim Fiscal Administrator Manager, organized the Christmas luncheon. Interim Chief Operation Officer, Shawna Legrand, welcomed and thanked the Rotary for its charity throughout the years and thanked Cottonwood staff for assisting with the luncheon and the program, and for all of the help throughout the years with taking care of the children. Most of the children come from Southeast Missouri area, but Cottonwood can serve any child who meets criteria for admission.
After the luncheon, Dr. Dan Cotner played the piano while attendees joined Trudy Lee, SEMO Director of Planned Giving, in singing Christmas carols. Cottonwood’s Activity Director, Tony Martin, and Recreation Therapist, Jodie Rouse, led Cottonwood children in singing Christmas songs for the Rotarians. Each child then came forward to receive his or her brand new pair of tennis shoes. Rotary President, Kenneth Heischmidt, asked the children to collectively hold their tennis shoes high in the air so that everyone could see them. It was obvious by the looks and grins on their faces that the children were thrilled to have very fashionable tennis shoes, every pair being different in color and style; and shoes that fit their feet. A True Christmas Story repeated itself for nearly three decades, a tradition that the Rotary and Cottonwood want to carry on for many more years.
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December 6, 2014
Community Counseling Center Receives Thanksgiving Baskets From St. Francis Medical Center
Each year for 26 years Saint Francis Medical Center and its employees have generously donated 35 Thanksgiving baskets to families in need who reside in Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) catchment area (Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Madiso
n, Perry, and Ste. Genevieve Counties).These numbers translate into 910 Thanksgiving gift baskets having been donated.
Community Counseling Center (CCC) Community Support Workers (CSWs) and their Supervisors identify families in need of a Thanksgiving meal. The gift baskets are assigned to CSWs who deliver them to their respective families. Each basket contains a turkey, vegetables, dinner rolls, and a pie – enough for a family meal. Saint Francis Medical Center donates the turkeys; employees take up collections for the other basket items. This year, 33 adults and 30 children in Cape Girardeau enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, a meal that they otherwise would not have had. The donations offered by St. Francis Medical Center provided that opportunity for families. Overall this year, St. Francis Thanksgiving baskets fed 84 adults and 98 children in the five counties that CCC serves.
Monica Reagan, Supervisor of the Adult Psychosocial Rehabilitation program reports that she knows of a family that would not be able to afford a decent Thanksgiving meal for her and her family, and how grateful the family is for the kindness shown around the holidays. Children Intensive Level Community Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center (ISCPRC) worker Crystal Edwards stated, “One of the mothers was so very thankful and excited to the point that mom became tearful.” ISCPRC Misty Boyd and CSW Kacey Davis both reported how surprised and thankful families were to receive a Thanksgiving gift basket.
Several Community Support Workers indicated that many consumers’ Food Stamps have been cut from $500 to $100, which dramatically cuts into how much food they can put on the table, and oftentimes going without. Community Counseling Center (CCC) greatly appreciates St. Francis Medical Center and its employees for the many years that they have donated Thanksgiving baskets so that CCC consumers could have Thanksgiving dinners.
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December 9, 2014
Teddy Bears Donated to Community Counseling Center Children's Program
Photo: Susan Jespersen, Leisa Blissett, Roger Jespersen
Leisa Blissett, Supervisor of Community Counseling Center’s (CCC) Children’s Comprehensive Community Rehabilitation Center (CPRC) Program had a real surprise when retired Pastor Roger Jespersen of Smith Chapel United Methodist and his wife Susan walked into the Center and donated 30 teddy bears to give to CCC child patients. Mr. Jespersen, a member of the Kiwanis organization, noted that the teddy bears were donated on behalf of the Jackson Kiwanis Club and the AKTION Club of Cape Girardeau County. Aktion Club is one member of the Kiwanis family of clubs and is a Kiwanis Club for adults living with disabilities.
Pastor Jespersen explained that the Kiwanis, an international volunteer organization, is currently partnered with UNICEF to eliminate maternal/neonatal tetanus. This deadly but preventable disease steals the lives of nearly 60,000 innocent babies and a significant number of women each year. In 2000 there were 59 countries where maternal/neonatal tetanus was a problem. Today there are 24 and 16 of the 35 countries have eliminated the disease since Kiwanis joined the effort in 2010. Kiwanis Clubs around the world are working on the project. Their goal is to raise $110 million. One avenue used to raise monies is the “teddy bear” project. Individuals “adopt a bear” by giving a donation to The Eliminate Project. The Kiwanis Club then donates the bears to organizations that serve children in the local community.
This year, as Ms. Blissett stated, “Community Counseling Center is blessed to receive these teddy bears. We could easily use 100 more.” David Bertrand, Emergency Service Specialist, who oftentimes assesses children in crisis, was elated when he saw the teddy bears. “I can really use some of these teddy bears. They’ll ease kid’s anxiety when I assess them. They are so soft. I know they will hold and squeeze them while they tell me what’s going on.”
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November 24, 2014
Community Counseling Center on-site Genoa Pharmacy Donates Food to St. Mary’s Cathedral Pantry
Photo: Chantel Dumey and Tabatha Morgan (Technicians); Whitney White, Pharmacist; and Heather White (Technician)
The on-site Genoa Pharmacy at Community Counseling Center (CCC) sponsored its 3rd annual food drive to help replenish the St. Mary’s Cathedral food pantry. Genoa Pharmacist Whitney White said that St. Mary’s Cathedral was chosen as the charity of choice because they found that many CCC clients benefit from their food pantry. In addition to Pharmacist White, three Pharmacy Technicians, Chantel Dumey, Tabatha Morgan, and Heather White assist with filling prescriptions for consumers and employees.
Genoa Pharmacy staff asked Community Counseling Center (CCC) employees to donate non-perishable food items. For each item donated, employees were given an entry ticket for a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate from Target. This year’s winner was Diane Knight of CCC’s Medical Records Department. Pharmacist White stated, “As always, CCC employees were very generous. They filled six very heavy, large boxes and loaded six shelves full of food items.”
_________________________________________________________________ November 24, 2014
Community Counseling Center in Cape Girardeau and Fredericktown Offices Donate Clothing
Tara Messmer, Child Case Manager (left), Fredericktown CCC Office
Vicki Oller, Office Manager (right), Fredericktown CCC Office
Community Counseling Center (CCC) employees in the Cape Girardeau and Fredericktown CCC offices donated warm clothing for CCC children and adult consumers who need them during the winter months. Supervisor Monica Regan, a member of CCC’s Activities Committee in the Cape office, and Vicki Oller, Office Manager in the Fredericktown office, organized the clothing drives.
Cape Community Counseling Center (CCC) employees donated 30 coats, 15 pair of gloves, 10 scarves, and 3 hats. Fredericktown employees collected 7 large bags of coats, sweaters, and scarfs and gloves. Ms. Oller noted, “Some of our consumers are very limited financially and do not have family who can help provide them with clothing.”
CCC Case Managers inform staff if a consumer is in need of clothing and what sizes. Consumers either go to the offices to pick up the clothing or their assigned Case Manager takes it to them. Ms. Oller states, “They [consumers] like receiving the clothing. It makes them feel good because they are getting something new that they cannot afford to buy.”
Tara Messmer, Child Case Manager (left), Fredericktown CCC Office, Vicki Oller, Office Manager (right), Fredericktown CCC Office
Community Counseling Center (CCC) employees in the Cape Girardeau and Fredericktown CCC offices donated warm clothing for CCC children and adult consumers who need them during the winter months. Supervisor Monica Regan, a member of CCC’s Activities Committee in the Cape office, and Vicki Oller, Office Manager in the Fredericktown office, organized the clothing drives.
Cape Community Counseling Center (CCC) employees donated 30 coats, 15 pair of gloves, 10 scarves, and 3 hats. Fredericktown employees collected 7 large bags of coats, sweaters, and scarfs and gloves. Ms. Oller noted, “Some of our consumers are very limited financially and do not have family who can help provide them with clothing.”
CCC Case Managers inform staff if a consumer is in need of clothing and what sizes. Consumers either go to the offices to pick up the clothing or their assigned Case Manager takes it to them. Ms. Oller states, “They [consumers] like receiving the clothing. It makes them feel good because they are getting something new that they cannot afford to buy.”
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November 14, 2014
Community Counseling Center at Fredericktown Honors Its Veterans
Four Fredericktown Community Counseling Center (CCC) veterans, Paula Polaski, Rosalie Truska-Elders, Christine Hafner, and Richard Strait were honored during a breakfast provided by twenty co-workers. CCC staff wanted to show their appreciation to the veterans for their sacrifices and the service they gave to our country. The veterans were surprised and humbled by having breakfast served to them.
Christine Hafner earned the rank of E-7 and served in the Navy for 14 years. Christina joined the Navy so that “I could see the world.” Her tour of duty included Portugal, Spain, Greece, Africa, Bahrain, France, Italy, Turkey, Israel, and United Arab Emirates. “I started from the bottom and worked my way up the chain of command. No matter my rank, I always knew where I had come from and what it was like to be a junior member looking up to my superiors, and during the time I served I learned what it was to be a leader.”
Paula Polaski served 4 years in the Army and earned the rank of E-5. She was stationed at Ft. Lee, Virginia, and had a tour of duty in South Korea.
Richard served in the Marine Corp and was stationed 3 years at Cherry Point, North Carolina where he earned the rank of E-3.
Rosalie served in the military for 6 years. She joined the Air Force and served two years of active duty as an assistant crew chief on the F-111F at Lakenheath, England. “I absolutely loved the job, and my NATO training missions and the tour of duty to Spain gave me the chance to explore.” After a 15 year break in military service, “I decided that I still had something to give so I joined the Navy Reserve. “ Rosalie earned the rank of E-5 while serving two years as a squad leader over 250 detainees at Camp Bucca, Iraq. “I miss the comradery that the military lifestyle offers, and I’ve never worked anywhere else where you form bonds that last a lifetime.”