ISSUE T WENT Y | CENTERSTONE.ORG
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F C E N T E R S T O N E
Misty’s Journey of Hope & Recovery
Suicide Prevention | Integrated Addictions Care | 5 Steps to Build Personal Resilience
ISSUE TWENTY COVER FEATURE 2 | A Bright Future: Misty’s Journey of Hope and Recovery
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS 7 | The Facts about Suicide and Prevention 8 | Physician Spotlight: John Kirk, DO
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9 | The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone 10 | 5 Steps to Build Personal Resilience 1 1 | Centerstone Housing Services 12 | Science Meets Service in New Integrated Addictions Care Model
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IN THE COMMUNITY 13 | New Comic Book Warns Teens about Online “Catfishing” 14 | Philanthropy in Action
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16 | News and Notes
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Editor in Chief Robert N. Vero, EdD
From the Editor in Chief
Managing Editor David Schrader Contributing Editors Elliot Pinsly Natalie Stone Zain Syed Contributing Writers Bryan Downey Jeney Slusser Becky Stoll Graphic Design Alexandra Cope Michael Rivera Centerstone Tennessee Board of Directors R. Parker Griffith, Chair Jim Sweeten, Vice Chair Dana Oman, Secretary Mark Faulkner, Immediate Past Chair Janet Ayers Kelly Crockett Crook Father Fred Dettwiller Dr. Vincent W. Durnan, Jr. Tracy Frist Father Bill Midgett Dr. Jill Obremskey Kate Satz Joan Sivley Sperry Bell Simmons Dr. Robert N. Vero, CEO
Welcome to this new issue of Centerstone’s Reclaiming Lives magazine. As I look across these pages at the work our staff does and the efforts our clients make to improve their lives, I’m truly inspired and hope you will be as well. We’ve started making a point in some of our team meetings to recognize inspiring events that occur throughout Centerstone. We call them “Noble Purpose moments” in keeping with our goal of delivering care that changes people’s lives. Whether it’s a staff member who quietly goes the extra mile to help a client or colleague, or it’s a client who shares his or her recovery story to encourage the next person in need, these wonderful moments are everywhere. You’ll sense the bravery in Misty Bennett’s cover story. I’m grateful for her willingness to openly discuss behavioral health challenges she has faced and the importance of seeking therapeutic help. By getting past any perceived stigma, she creates the potential to save more lives. I also see our Noble Purpose in action with the planned spring 2018 opening of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone in Clarksville (page 9), the housing services we provide across Middle Tennessee (page 11) and in piloting a new model for Integrated Addictions Care (page 12). There are also exciting developments in educating the public about Adverse Childhood Experiences (page 15) and meeting new standards of service excellence (page 17). Thank you for partnering with us in these efforts. Your interest in and support of what Centerstone does really helps—and we are honored to help bring improved health to this community and beyond.
ABOUT CENTERSTONE Centerstone is a not-for-profit health care organization dedicated to delivering care that changes people’s lives. We are a nationally recognized leader, providing mental health and substance use treatment, related crisis care, education and support to people of all ages in communities in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. Nationally, we offer specialized care for service members, Veterans and their loved ones, and develop employee assistance programs for businesses of all sizes. Our research institute improves behavioral health care through research, evaluation and technology, and our foundation secures philanthropic resources to support our work. For more information about Centerstone, please call (888) 291-4357 or visit centerstone.org.
Robert N. Vero, EdD Chief Executive Officer
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COVER FEATURE
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Misty’s Journey of Hope and Recovery FOLLOW HER ALONG AN INSPIRING PATH FROM TRAUMA TO TRIUMPH.
“I always thought therapists and psychiatrists and stuff like that was baloney, you know what I mean?” says Centerstone client Misty Bennett just before her Monday morning appointment at the clinic in Coffee County. ‘Suck it up!’ is what I used to tell myself all the time.” Indeed, this strong-willed mother of three teens has always been one to simply take care of business. Misty helped her dad on carpentry jobs as a kid, managed a fastfood restaurant at 17 and later supervised factory workers. Along the way, that same hard work ethic became an anchor to her family. Holiday cooking, late night emergencies, a ride to the store, a place to stay, care for dying relatives—call Misty. But one night Misty’s husband had to make an emergency call on her behalf. An unattended buildup of emotions from childhood trauma, combined with using alcohol to self-medicate for depression, brought Bennett to a sudden breaking point.
“I tried to kill myself twice in one week,” she says. “I was just tired. That’s all I know to tell you.” What’s really telling is that Bennett isn’t the only one who has felt this way. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. But it’s also highly preventable. That’s why Centerstone is committed to regularly screening each of our clients for suicide risk factors. And when those factors are identified, the client is enrolled in the Clinical Pathway for Suicide Prevention, a recurring checkpoint system to provide heightened measures of safety and emotional support. But there’s more to effective suicide prevention than active clinical insight. Everyone can learn about suicide risk factors and how to recognize warning signs (see page 7). Just as important, survivors like Misty help reduce stigma by bravely breaking their silence. Her story is both real and relatable. continues on page 4 CENTERSTONE.ORG
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Misty visits with her therapist, Tammy Pawlak.
SIGNS OF TROUBLE “I’ve had lots of terrible, traumatic things happen to me in my past—but I don’t really try to dwell on them,” Bennett says. “I wasn’t in the habit of counseling, but I was on medication for depression in the past. After I left my job, the prescription was too expensive without insurance, but a lot of things were still bothering me. So I weaned myself off and started drinking more and more and more.” Among the things bothering Misty were unresolved issues related to being raised in an alcoholic home and recent back-to-back deaths of two close family members from alcohol-fueled cirrhosis of the liver. True to history, she tended to other people’s needs far more than her own along the way. The irony of how she handled all the mounting stress isn’t lost on her. “It’s rough to see somebody pass away that way and then drink yourself,” she says. “The more I drank 4
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the worse it got. But I couldn’t sleep. My mind didn’t shut down unless I would just drink, drink, and drink. I was so physically, emotionally and mentally drained.” In hindsight the signs for suicide risk were there: a history of trauma and excessive substance use combined with feelings of hopelessness, increasing alcohol consumption and emotional withdrawal. Misty doesn’t remember much about those dark moments immediately surrounding her two attempts, but the way forward to a bright future would soon become clear.
STEPS TO HEALING Following a hospitalization as a result of her suicide attempts, Bennett met with Centerstone therapist Tammy Pawlak and was placed on the Clinical Pathway for Suicide Prevention. Misty admits not really wanting to engage in the therapy process during her first few appointments—but she’s glad now for the connection that was being made.
“I normally stay to myself. This would blow anybody’s mind to know I was sitting here talking to you right now,” she says with a smile. “Tammy’s great. I have no idea how she got me to start talking, but it has helped. A lot. I’ve gotten much more direct since all this happened. We talk about everything.” Placement on the suicide prevention pathway involves several key steps. After the initial assessment, Pawlak reviewed an educational sheet about suicide prevention with Bennett and developed an individualized crisis plan in case suicidal thoughts returned. Next came restricting access to means—removing weapons, sharp objects, dangerous substances and choking hazards from the home—and establishing communication with a secondary contact to be sure this safety measure was completed. Weekly appointments are standard, and reassessment for suicidal ideation is done at each session. Tammy is especially pleased with and inspired by Misty’s turnaround. Bennett has stopping drinking alcohol and works with a Centerstone nurse practitioner to manage the right balance of proven medications for treatment of depression and anxiety. She’s clearly committed to her recovery and—in her dependable way—has fully cooperated with the suicide prevention pathway guidelines. “Misty’s trauma history is extensive, and to see how far she has come is remarkable,” says Pawlak. “She is very strong, hard-working in everything and is following through to maintain her mental health stability not only for herself but for her family. Misty has gained great insight on how to process negative thoughts. She’s able to recognize triggers and warning signs and know when to ask for help. This is the exactly the kind of improvement a therapist wants to see with a client on the pathway.”
ENJOYING LIFE AGAIN Bennett is also a shining example of the good that comes from receiving behavioral health. Her newfound courage has Misty sharing her story of resilience and recovery with others. “Misty shared that she was afraid of sharing her thoughts about past trauma and has difficulty trusting others. But she has gone from fearing mental health services to openly speaking about her mental health treatment,” says Tammy. “I couldn’t be more proud of her. It’s a pleasure seeing her battle past demons in order to produce a future filled with smiling, laughter and enjoying life again.” continues on page 6
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We talk about everything. It has helped. A lot.”
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Just a glimpse into Misty’s life reveals a wealth of motivation: growing children, a supportive husband, their thriving home improvement installation business as well as creative art projects they make and sell at weekend craft fairs. She enjoys creating crosses out of reclaimed barn wood and burlap. There are also inexpensive holidaythemed woodcuts she designs for little kids to paint; a picture on her phone reveals two smiling children proudly displaying their artwork—Bennett brings joy to others. “I think about that sometimes. I have a good life and a lot to be thankful for,” she says. “It’s been exciting trying to get better. I just try to remind myself and think about everything I have.” Her transition from closed book to suicide prevention advocate is another great gift. This small town woman’s recovery experience adds fuel to Centerstone’s suicide prevention efforts that have now reached around the world, from Tullahoma to Washington D.C., Europe to Australia and in partnership with organizations including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and National Football League. “I’m not embarrassed by it,” she says. “I don’t care how weak anyone may think I am, because I feel a whole lot better. It has really changed me coming here to Centerstone. I’d encourage anyone to come talk to a therapist and find the right medication if it’s needed. It has changed my life.” So life goes on for Misty Bennett, marked by hope and strong determination. And despite her age, she smiles and admits already daydreaming about retirement and further investing in her family. “That’s next—early retirement and moving to the country,” she suggests. “I live for my kids. I just want to see them grow up and make something of themselves, and I’ll die happy—a long time from now.”
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I feel a whole lot better. It has really changed me coming here to Centerstone.”
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If you or someone you know needs help, call Centerstone. Initial appointments: (888) 291-4357 (HELP) 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (800) 681-7444
The Facts about Suicide and Prevention Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and a preventable public health concern. Knowing who’s at risk and the warning signs for suicide can help reduce the likelihood of you or someone you know dying this way.
What to Do When Someone May Be Suicidal: •
Ask direct questions and invite the person to share feelings
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Be a good listener, avoid judgments, take the person seriously
Who’s Most at Risk?
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While suicide does not discriminate, persons most at risk often share common characteristic risk factors such as:
Offer your help and support, now and in the long-term
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• Chronic physical illness, mental illness and/or a substance use disorder
Reduce access to means by removing guns, stockpiled pills or other items • Encourage the person to call an expert at our 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (800) 681-7444
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Less social support (i.e. friends, family, community)
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History of trauma
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Prior suicide attempt
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Family history of suicide
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An organized plan for suicide and access to lethal means
Warning Signs of Suicide: •
Threatening to hurt or kill oneself
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Seeking access to means (weapon, drugs, etc.)
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Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
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Feeling hopeless, worthless or trapped
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Remain engaged and seek help from a trained mental health professional
Suicide Prevention at Centerstone On local, national and global fronts, Centerstone is actively helping to lead pioneering efforts related to the cause of suicide prevention. We believe that suicide deaths among those under care are preventable. At Centerstone, suicide prevention measures are a staff priority at all levels and across the continuum of care. Measures include these practices to help keep our clients safe: •
Implementing best practices around screening/ assessing for suicide risk;
Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities
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Counseling on access to lethal means;
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Increasing alcohol or drug use
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Development of crisis management plans;
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Withdrawing from family, friends or society
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Increasing the frequency of treatment;
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Demonstrating rage/anger or seeking revenge
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Appearing agitated
Monitoring those identified as high risk for suicide.
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PHYSICIAN SPOTLIGHT
John Kirk, DO
Dr. John Kirk is a psychiatrist at Centerstone in Fayetteville, Tennessee. He practices adult as well as child and adolescent psychiatry using individual therapy, family therapy and psychopharmacologic treatment. After attending Kemper Military Junior College, Westminster College and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Kirk completed his post-graduate training at Tripler Army Medical Center. During active duty with the United States Army, he held positions ranging from Chief of Psychiatry Service to Hospital Commander before retiring with the rank of Colonel. Dr. Kirk has worked with Centerstone since 2005.
Why did you choose to work at Centerstone?
Several individuals I met and talked with said they were very happy working at Centerstone. I found that when I began working here the staff (nursing, physician, nurse practitioner, therapist, case managers and administrative) were excellent individuals who strive to provide the highest quality of care to patients. The administrative staff always strive to provide the best support to Centerstone personnel as well as the patients. Recently, what is the most significant advancement you’ve seen in mental health care?
The use of pharmacogenomic testing in psychiatry. It will help clinicians make more informed decision in regards to the use of psychopharmacologic agents. What future advances in delivery of care excite you?
I think that advances in neuroimaging will improve the care provided to patients. Tell us about your family.
My father was a junior high school principal and received his doctorate in education. My mother was a speech therapist. I have an older brother and a
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younger sister. My parents were very positive about providing educational opportunities. What do you do in your spare time? I enjoy reading—my favorite author is Clive Cussler. I also enjoy playing bridge, going to Broadway productions, going to car shows and antique shopping. What is something people don’t know about you? That I enjoy classical music and Broadway shows. What made you interested in psychiatry? When I was at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine I enjoyed the psychiatry lectures a great deal. I went to Tripler Army Medical Center as a medical student where I thoroughly enjoyed my psychiatry training. Establishing the therapeutic relationship with the patient is an important element of psychiatry for me. What do you think you would have done if you had not chosen this line of work? I would have most likely pursued a career in the educational field, most likely in mathematics.
What has your favorite moment in your career been so far? There have been several favorite moments in my career. They include graduating from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating from my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship, obtaining board certification, being promoted to Colonel and being a Hospital Commander. What is a piece of advice that you have found useful over the years? Do the best that you can in everything that you pursue. Describe an ideal day off? I would like to drive around in my Cabriolet with my friends, top down on a sunny day going to various car shows and antique auctions. What is on your bucket list? I would like to go to Scotland to ride on the Royal Scotsman Train, visit the Mercedes factories in Germany and to obtain a MB 280 SE Cabriolet.
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone to Open in Clarksville An exciting new partnership is now in development to expand Centerstone’s capacity to serve military Veterans and their families. Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) and Centerstone will open the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone in spring 2018. This newly built facility will be strategically located in Clarksville, near United States Army installation Fort Campbell. The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone will provide confidential, high-quality behavioral health care services and case management resources at low to no-cost and without long wait times to Veterans, including National Guard and Reserves, their families and the families of active duty, including spouse, partner, children, parents, siblings, caregivers and others. Services are available regardless of discharge status, role while in uniform, combat experience, ability to pay or insurance coverage.
Highly-skilled clinicians at the Cohen Clinic will treat a variety of behavioral health challenges, including: •
Depression
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Hyper-vigilance
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Stress and anxiety
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Anger
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Post-traumatic stress • Grief and loss
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Substance misuse
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Transitional challenges
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Sleep problems
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Relationship/family issues
“We’re honored CVN has selected Centerstone for this partnership. This new alliance is evidence of our staff ’s impact—their commitment to optimal treatment, innovation and quality of care,” says Dr. Bob Vero, Centerstone Tennessee CEO. “I’m confident the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone will be a natural extension of the excellent work performed daily by our teams already specializing in care for Veterans and their families: Supportive Services for Veterans Families and Centerstone Military Services.” Cohen Veterans Network was established in 2015 with a $275 million commitment from philanthropist Steven A. Cohen, whose son served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Those funds are managed by CVN—in tandem with selected provider partners—to cover all startup costs for a growing number of clinics nationwide, from facility expenses to marketing, staffing and training. For more information, please visit centerstone.org/cohen. CENTERSTONE.ORG
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5 Steps to Build Personal Resilience by Becky Stoll, Centerstone
As we continue to see traumatic events in the news – like the recent hurricanes in Texas and Florida, wildfires in California and the shooting in Las Vegas – it is normal to possibly feel vulnerable and upset. Whether someone is directly affected by an event or experiences secondhand exposure, acknowledging feelings about these occurrences is important for one’s mental health. The unpredictable nature of events like these is all the more unsettling. To best prepare for and be able to cope with such events, we can bring some focus to building personal resilience – our ability to recover and move forward from a traumatic event. When faced with a personal traumatic experience or being exposed to one in the media, we can use these experiences to build strength and coping skills. Here are some ways to build personal resilience: • Take Your Time - It is important to keep in mind that everyone experiences traumatic events in different ways. There is no such thing as right or wrong feelings or moving through the healing process too fast or too slow. Remember, everyone processes these events in their own time and in their own way. Be patient with yourself. • Have Hope - Striving for feelings of hope is a valuable way to address traumatic events, knowing that you will find a way to carry on. Focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on barriers helps propel you forward. Believing that things can and will get better might sound simplistic but is a key to resilience. • Seek Support - Surrounding yourself with your support system is vital during these times. Identify those in your life you can lean on and talk to about what you are experiencing and feeling. From loved 10
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ones like family and friends to support groups and professional counselors, there are many resources available to offer short- and long-term support and care. • Find Joy - Exposure to traumatic events can often make us focus on all that is wrong in the world. Seek pleasure in small things – a meaningful conversation, an enjoyable meal, hobbies – to uplift your mood and spirits. Spend time doing activities that bring you joy and foster your social support network. • Help Others - Helping others can be an impactful way to cope with a personal or secondary traumatic occurrence. Not only can this be emotionally rewarding, but knowing you are making a difference can help in the coping and healing process. Volunteering can be a positive distraction from negative and stressful feelings. While the world will continue to throw unexpected traumatic events our way, we can all draw our attention to building our own personal resiliency and strengthening our ability to cope. To achieve this, we must be purposeful in building these skills before the next event strikes in our own lives or in the news. The good news is that it can be done. If you or a loved one is having trouble dealing with recent traumatic events, Centerstone is here to help. Call (888) 291-4357 (HELP) to make an appointment. Call (800) 681-7444 for our 24-Hour Crisis Hotline.
Becky Stoll is Vice President of Crisis & Disaster Management at Centerstone.
SPOTLIGHT ON
Centerstone Housing Services Centerstone Housing Services are available to adults age 18 or older with a history of mental illness who are in need of a safe and stable place to live. These services include both supervised and unsupervised options, each designed to help guide residents toward more independent living and improved whole-person health. Centerstone offers more than 230 total beds across many types of homes throughout Middle Tennessee. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing high quality, affordable housing along with compassionate care for each of our residents. Types of housing offered include: Supervised Housing (24/7 awake staffing) •
Supported Housing – for individuals in transition from psychiatric hospitalization or unstable living situations; services include daily social and life skills training, coordinated whole-person health care, social outings, group activities and more
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Enhanced Supported Housing – specialized homes with additional staffing, available for those needing more hands-on care due to unique medical and/or mental health needs
Independent Living •
Apartments – affordable, independent housing where residents are responsible for their daily activities while receiving ongoing support from Centerstone as needed
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Congregate Living – cooperative housing environment with shared central living quarters; residents are supported by a Centerstone Housing Specialist
“Our staff is well prepared to serve and support clients across a broad spectrum of housing needs,” says John Sanders, Director of Centerstone Housing Services. “We’re honored to help provide steps toward independence and positive social engagement as well as working closely with residents to achieve improved mental and physical health.”
If you know someone in Tennessee who is in need of these housing options, contact Centerstone today. For supervised housing: Phone: (615) 460-4453
For independent living: Phone: (615) 460-4440
housing@centerstone.org centerstone.org/housing
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Science Meets Service in New Integrated Addictions Care Model
Behavioral health currently faces a 17-year science to service gap. That means it takes an average of 17 years for service delivery to catch up to what research supports as best practice. To provide the best possible care, Centerstone Research Institute works to help close that gap, while driving innovation that is recognized for establishing best practices. Achieving this goal involves collaboration with industry experts and close partnership at Centerstone between our Center for Clinical Excellence (CCE) and the Research Institute’s Research & Evaluation (R&E) team. CCE exists to ensure the highest level of client engagement, to design effective treatments to support improved patient outcomes and to support clinicians throughout Centerstone in adopting best practices and clinical innovations. Much of CCE’s work revolves around the development and implementation of clinical models, processes and pathways. High value clinical models and treatment pathways feature industry best practices, evidencebased interventions and processes to track positive changes that individuals experience from our care. R&E evaluates clinical models and pathways to ensure and identify which types of services or interventions lead to the best outcomes. In addition, R&E supports ongoing model evolution that allows our clinical services to advance as new research and best practices emerge. The most recently developed clinical model is the Integrated Addictions Care model, which is now being piloted across the Centerstone five-state enterprise. The Integrated Addictions Care model is the suite of services Centerstone provides to individuals 12
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with mild to severe substance use disorders and/ or co-occurring disorders. Integrated Addictions Care teams equip clients who have complex health care needs with the tools, skills and community connections needed to fully engage in recovery activities, improve their physical and mental health and enjoy life without the use of substances. This recovery-oriented model is a person-centered, strengths-based, collaborative partnership between the client and his or her multidisciplinary team to develop the best possible treatment plan for recovery. “Embracing a recoveryoriented approach means individuals are welcomed to treatment regardless of where they are in their journey to recovery,” said Centerstone’s Ashley Newton, Vice President of the Center Ashley Newton, VP, Center for Clinical Excellence. “Care for Clinical Excellence at Centerstone teams partner with each client to build the internal and external resources needed to achieve and maintain recovery.” We believe addictions care treatment should address areas of life that lead to healthy days in the community: strengthening connections to the local recovery community, developing an individualized relapse prevention plan, practicing drug refusal skills, improving the ability to secure and maintain employment, strategies to secure stable housing and rebuilding relationships with natural supports. Innovation, integration, evaluation—all done with a higher standard of clinical excellence. These are exciting steps in Centerstone’s ongoing commitment to delivering care that changes people’s lives.
New Comic Book Warns Teens about Online “Catfishing”
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enterstone has released a fourth superhero-themed comic book for students. Spark: Caught in the Net addresses the dangers of “catfishing”—the act of luring someone into a relationship by means of a fictional online persona. It’s available now for distribution to schools throughout 58 Tennessee counties and can also be read and reprinted at whoyouwant2be.org/comics.
Roddy Fernandez wrote Spark: Caught in the Net
This free comic is part of a series of illustrated comic books developed by Centerstone Prevention Services and targeted to teens. The newest comic book’s focus on “catfishing” adds to the existing collection on topics adolescents face, such as bullying, sexting and underage drinking. Spark: Caught in the Net introduces two female high school students—Kilobyte and Mirage—who meet in foster care. Each possesses unique high-tech powers, but their impressive skills don’t translate very well to online safety. When Mirage sneaks out to meet up with a boy from the internet, his charm quickly fades in person, and the lies about who he really is lead to great danger. Fortunately, superhero Spark swoops in to save the day and teach an important lesson in decision making and the vulnerability of teens on the internet. “You were able to see what can happen by just trusting some random person online,” the hero says. This new comic marks a first-time creative collaboration between Centerstone’s Prevention Services and Therapeutic Foster Care divisions. Both teams work daily with adolescents throughout Tennessee, promoting improved mental, physical and emotional health. Roddy Fernandez, a Therapeutic Foster Care Program Manager at Centerstone, wrote the story having enjoyed other Spark comics. He saw a clear connection between foster kids and superheroes. “From Batman to Spiderman to Superman, it’s almost a prerequisite that superheroes have been orphaned or lost regular contact with their parents,” Fernandez said. “This felt like an opportunity to address an important issue. I’ve seen too much ‘catfishing’ in the history of children who have come into our care, often younger teens who were drawn in by older men online. Kids need to develop good judgment and a steady filter to determine what’s safe and sensible. I hope this story helps with that.” Prevention specialists at Centerstone are distributing Spark: Caught in the Net during classroom presentations and to teachers at schools that have signed up to participate. The comic is also given out at school and community events and among Centerstone foster families and outpatient child and family counselors. Centerstone Prevention Services: whoyouwant2be.org Centerstone Therapeutic Foster Care: centerstone.org/fostercare
Zap! Ka-Pow! Spark: Caught in the Net met fellow superheroes and handed out copies of Caught in the Net at Wizard World Comic Con in Nashville.
The publication of Spark: Caught in the Net was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Adolescent Health, grant number TP1AH000081-01-00; its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HHS. CENTERSTONE.ORG
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Philanthropy IN ACTION
Dr. Bob Vero, Lisa Goodpaster and Jon Kent
Event hosts Kelly Crockett Crook, Lee Ann Ingram and Dana Oman
Ingram Hosts Learning Luncheon Lee Ann Ingram, former Board Chair of Centerstone Tennessee, recently welcomed guests to her home for “Sip, Nibble, Listen & Learn.” The lovely event—accented by flowers, food and music—helped further spread the word about Centerstone behavioral health services, particularly life coaching for teenagers. Co-hosts and board members Kelly Crockett Crook and Dana Oman, along with CEO Dr. Bob Vero, shared inspiring stories of young people’s lives changed for the better.
Suicide Prevention Film Partnership Centerstone has partnered with renowned suicide prevention advocate Kevin Hines in support of his new documentary The Ripple Effect. Hines will appear at a variety of upcoming Centerstone events across the organization’s five-state footprint, offering Q&A sessions after private screenings. The film chronicles how Hines survived a harrowing suicide attempt from jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the impact it had on those who saved his life—Coast Guard first responders, an emergency room nurse, a hospital chaplain and family members. For more information about these partnership events please contact foundation@centerstone.org. Kevin Hines
Centerstone Receives Kaleo Cares Grant Kaleo Cares has awarded Centerstone with a product donation grant that will equip all Tennessee outpatient clinics with multiple EVZIO™ naloxone auto-injectors and emergency use training. Opioid overuse kills nearly 100 people in the U.S. every day, and Tennessee is ranked third in the country for prescription drug abuse. This donation will ensure that Centerstone staff in Tennessee are prepared to help anyone experiencing an opioid related overdose emergency. 14
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Amy Pass, Milah Lynn, Steve Lynn, Ray Moser, Kent Crossley, Wes Pass
Jeff Nahley, Tom Mahler, David Guth
Centerstone Military Services Fundraiser Centerstone Military Services hosted its inaugural signature dinner and charity auction to raise awareness and support for Veterans and service members who are facing the invisible wounds of war. Guests gathered at the home of Milah and Steve Lynn in Nashville for a special reception and musical performance generously sponsored by Wells Fargo. All proceeds were designated to establish a Centerstone Military Services national counseling fund that will provide in-person behavioral health treatment to Veterans and service members who would otherwise have no access to care. Services will be provided regardless of discharge status, diagnosis or ability to pay.
Lauren Clanton Named Director of Advancement Centerstone has named Lauren Clanton as Director of Advancement for its Tennessee-based operations. In this role she will oversee philanthropic giving, play a lead role in creating and sustaining new community relationships, manage donor relations, direct event planning and more. Lauren joins Centerstone having most recently served as an Executive Director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She has also held positions with the American Cancer Society, Tennessee Chapter of Children’s Advocacy Centers and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Clanton holds a degree in Communications and Public Relations from The University of Alabama.
Alexine Batts, Melissa Gilbreath, Ingrid Cockhren
ACEs Event Series Continues Centerstone's Ambassadors Circle joined with ACE Nashville to host the second of three events in the “Adverse Child Experiences: Building Strong Brains” speaker series. Presenters at the Lentz Public Health Center gathering discussed how toxic stress uniquely affects children between ages 6 to 12. Speakers included Alexine Batts (Family & Children’s Service), Melissa Gilbreath (Centerstone Early Childhood Services) and Ingrid Cockhren (LeMai Daisy, Metro Nashville Public Schools). CENTERSTONE.ORG
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NEWS&NOTES
Drs. Bert Hartman, Karen Rhea, Ralph Barr, Lynna Hollis and Allen Craig attend the annual Centerstone psychiatry staff meeting.
Brad Nunn receives his 2017 Health Care Hero Award from Nashville Business Journal. Don Whitehead and Dr. Bob Vero attend the 2017 Tennessee Journalism Hall of Fame ceremony.
Nashville Public Library employee Johnny Hayes displays Centerstone’s "Adventures in Stress Relief" coloring book and depression information card.
Brad Nunn Wins Health Care Hero Award Congratulations to Brad Nunn, Vice President of Quality Improvement, who received a 2017 Health Care Hero award from Nashville Business Journal. Dr. Nunn was honored in the Quality category for his thirty years of emphasizing better service and outcomes in Middle Tennessee’s behavioral health industry.
Nashville Public Library Adds Centerstone Materials Check this out! Several Centerstone resources, including 16
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our “Adventures in Stress Relief ” coloring books, Prevention Services comics and information cards about depression, were recently given out to patrons at six Nashville Public Library locations via Mental Health Awareness displays.
Psychiatry Staff Holds Annual Meeting Centerstone psychiatry staff from across Tennessee gathered at Nashville’s Union Station Hotel for their annual meeting. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Karen Rhea introduced guest speaker Dr. Richard Petty, who spoke to the
audience about new options in pharmacotherapy for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Former Board Member Joins Hall of Fame Dr. Bob Vero, CEO, attended 2017’s Tennessee Journalism Hall of Fame event honoring Don Whitehead. Don was a board member of Luton Mental Health Center which later joined Centerstone. WSMV-TV reports Mr. Whitehead "helped break the color barrier as an African-American radio news broadcaster in Nashville in the 1960s.” Congratulations!
Natalie Stone meets her cartoon likeness after giving a keynote speech at the Mental Health Marketing Conference.
Office manager Valerie Brooks shows artwork carved from the trunk of a 100-year-old tree that fell at Centerstone’s Dede Wallace campus; it will be displayed inside the clinic.
Madison employees Paula Dotson, Darlene Caudill, Melinda Zimmerlee, April Holman-McKissack and Lynn Costello model the new Centerstone Service Standards t-shirts.
Staff members gather outside to witness the total solar eclipse wearing their Centerstone-branded protective glasses.
Natalie Stone Speaks on Advocacy Natalie Stone, Vice President of Corporate Communications, gave a keynote speech on Public Policy and Advocacy in Mental Health at the Mental Health Marketing Conference held at Lipscomb University. A local artist did illustrations for each presentation. How fun!
Solar Eclipse Fun at Centerstone To view the rare full solar eclipse visible in parts of Tennessee, people present at locations in
the line of totality were given Centerstone-branded glasses to safely experience the event. Staff went outside to celebrate the natural wonder, and at one clinic team members even enjoyed eclipse-themed cupcakes!
Wallace Center in 1970, and when Centerstone’s new facility opened in 2014. To preserve the tree’s memory, “Centerstone” was carved into a piece of its trunk.
Carved into History
Centerstone Tennessee employees who completed an online training about our service standards— Safety & Security, Hospitality, Responsiveness, Convenience, Follow-Through—were eligible to receive a free t-shirt highlighting those same behaviors.
Speaking of natural wonder, a storm took down a 100-year-old oak tree at our White Avenue clinic in Nashville. It was onsite when the Home for Crippled Children was built in 1923, when another building was added in 1956 then renamed the Dede
Celebrating Our Service Standards
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Board Member Spotlight: Mark Faulkner Centerstone board members generously donate time and resources toward our purpose of delivering care that changes people’s lives. Mark Faulkner is Immediate Past Chair of the Centerstone Tennessee board. He holds a degree in Physics from Dallas University and is a leader in the business of science as President of Vireo Systems, Inc. Describe your experience as a Centerstone board member. The governance of Centerstone is the best board participation I have experienced. Each initiative to expose us to the broad lines of service strengthens my confidence in Centerstone’s mission and its unique ability to make a difference in the health care of the neediest of our society. What film could you watch over and over? The Sound of Music just because it has it all – music, humor, drama, dancing, courage and love.
What services are you most passionate about at Centerstone? Each area of service with which I have become familiar demonstrates such moving and uplifting results. Whether the very young in Early Childhood Services and school-based care, the youth that become troubled through teen years or adults and elderly, each are sacred human beings treated with dignity by the warm hearts and competent minds of Centerstone professionals. Tell us about your family. I am married to Sue Faulkner, State of Tennessee champion tennis player. We have four amazing kids: Shannon who is getting her Ph.D. in Clinical Audiology; Joseph who is heading off to Naval Aviation Pilot School after he finishes his senior year at Notre Dame; Matt who is rocking his freshman year at Miami University of Ohio; and Pete who helps us hold down the home front as a sophomore at Father Ryan High School. What could our society use most today? Kindness