Journeys Magazine 2010 by Skyland Trail

SPRING 2010

INSIDE: MENTAL HEALTH PARITY ACT Regulations take effect to insure more Americans THE RIPPLE EFFECT Clinical model frames mental health training

Opening Up Journey of Self Discovery Leads to and from Skyland Trail

news

A L O N G T H E WAY

message

SPRING 2010

F RO M T H E P R E S I D E N T

ITH THE CLEAR DIRECTION OF OUR FOUNDING BOARD AND THREE strategic planning efforts since our inception, Skyland Trail has enjoyed strong growth and achieved many significant milestones during its 20 year history. Each planning process has generated rich discussions on future directions for Skyland Trail. The past year has been a challenging one for many non-profits and has certainly been a time for careful management and prudent actions. But the challenge of an economic downturn also provides an opportunity to reposition as needed to emerge as a stronger organization and in a greater position of competitiveness. With that in mind, the Board of Directors embarked on its fourth strategic planning process in January to once again enter into a new chapter of discussions, discoveries, and possibilities for Skyland Trail. You will read in this issue about how the leaders, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders are advancing this exciting process for our organization. Also, you will read about a new federal law that requires insurance plans to provide for mental health coverage on parity with physical health coverage. This is a long-sought breakthrough to help clients receive the full schedule of mental health treatment they require, without premature termination of benefits. Last month we were thrilled for Skyland Trail to be selected as the beneficiary of the WXIA Community Service Awards dinner held April 20 in Atlanta. The awards dinner honored 12 community volunteers, in addition to Skyland Trail, and was taped for television broadcast on WXIA to share with the entire Atlanta market. We are extremely grateful for the wonderful financial contribution and inspired to receive it as our 20th anniversary year draws to a close. At our main campus, we soon will finish up construction at the Dorothy C. Fuqua Center, with funds raised from the Initiative for Program and Campus Expansion (ICE) campaign. With renovations completed this summer, we will be ready for the expanded operations of our Vocational Services Program. We are grateful to all who contributed to our capital campaign that funded this important addition. As you read through this issue of Journeys, please know how much we appreciate the interest and support of all our friends. Sincerely yours,

ELIZABETH E. FINNERTY, M.B.A., M.H.A.

J JOOUURRNNEEYYSS MMAAGGAAZZI N I NEE

W E S Q U E S E N B E R RY: 4 Opening Up: Journey of Self-Discovery Leads to and from Skyland Trail

M E N TA L H E A LT H PA R I T Y I N S U R E S MORE AMERICANS: 10 Regulations for Mental Health Parity Act Take Effect MESSAGE FROM THE MEDICAL

SKYLAND TRAIL

DIRECTOR

Clinical Model Frames Mental Health Training Mark C. West Chairman of the Board Elizabeth E. Finnerty, M.B.A., M.H.A. President/CEO Skyland Trail, developed and supported by the George West Mental Health Foundation, offers hope to adults with mental illness by teaching them the skills they need to truly change their lives. Programs are offered on three campus-like settings led by a team of professionals who are specialists in their fields.

EVENTS

Benefits of Laughter, WXIA Community Service Awards and Associates Luncheon GIVING TO SKYLAND TRAIL

Explore Benefits of Planned Giving

Conni Lombardo Executive Editor Chas Strong Writer/Copy Editor Kerstin Weis Designer Skyland Trail JOURNEYS is a publication of Skyland Trail, a project of the George West Mental Health Foundation. Single copies can be requested at (678) 686-5912. Postmaster: Send address changes to SKYLAND TRAIL, 1961 North Druid Hills Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329. On the Cover: Wes Quesenberry, Skyland Trail alumnus. Cover photo taken at Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Photography by Phillip Vullo.

PRESIDENT/CEO 1

NEWS 2

R E C L A I M I N G M E N TA L H E A LT H T H R O U G H T R E AT M E N T, E D U C AT I O N A N D S U P P O R T

news

A L O N G T H E WAY

message

SPRING 2010

F RO M T H E P R E S I D E N T

ELIZABETH E. FINNERTY, M.B.A., M.H.A.

J JOOUURRNNEEYYSS MMAAGGAAZZI N I NEE

W E S Q U E S E N B E R RY: 4 Opening Up: Journey of Self-Discovery Leads to and from Skyland Trail

M E N TA L H E A LT H PA R I T Y I N S U R E S MORE AMERICANS: 10 Regulations for Mental Health Parity Act Take Effect MESSAGE FROM THE MEDICAL

SKYLAND TRAIL

DIRECTOR

EVENTS

Benefits of Laughter, WXIA Community Service Awards and Associates Luncheon GIVING TO SKYLAND TRAIL

Explore Benefits of Planned Giving

PRESIDENT/CEO 1

NEWS 2

R E C L A I M I N G M E N TA L H E A LT H T H R O U G H T R E AT M E N T, E D U C AT I O N A N D S U P P O R T

news

A L O N G T H E WAY

Skyland Trail Clients Honored at Southeastern Flower Show

ith the help of longtime Skyland Trail friend and volunteer Virginia Almand, clients enjoyed a successful day at the 24th annual Southeastern Flower Show, held February 4-6 at the Cobb Galleria. Two Skyland Trail entries took home honors in the forced bulbs division. Congratulations to Heath K. for earning “Best in Class” and to Kathleen T. for winning a blue ribbon in the Tulip Bulbs division! Almand, a noted Atlanta philanthropist who serves as a judge for similar shows around the country, has been volunteering at Skyland Trail for the past 10 years. Skyland Trail clients have participated in the Southeastern Flower Show for the last five years with guidance from Almond and horticultural therapist Libba Shortridge.

Skyland Trail Partners with Morehouse on Primary Care Study

kyland Trail and the Morehouse School of Medicine’s Satcher Leadership Institute conducted a threeweek study during January on the integration of priSkyland Trail and Morehouse University staff collaborate on Primary mary care and Care Study. mental health care. Skyland Trail opened a full-time individuals with mental disabilities primary care clinic in 2008, one of the do not fall through the cracks when first mental health treatment centers in it comes to receiving primary the country to do so. Morehouse post- health care,” he said. “What Skyland doctoral fellow Brian McGregor, PhD, Trail is doing is vital to that end. who is studying the integration of priThis is a cutting edge program, and mary care in mental health settings, Skyland Trail’s team is leading the had the chance to observe the benefits way towards mental health of Skyland Trail’s clinic firsthand. providers offering their clients “We’re trying to make sure that much-needed primary health care.”

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

N E W B OA R D O F DIRECTORS AND A D V I S O RY B OA R D MEMBERS FOR 2010

kyland Trail is pleased to announce new members of the George West Mental Health Foundation Board of Directors. New members elected to the board for terms beginning in 2010 are David Flint of Schreeder, Wheeler & Flint, LLP; Jackie Montag of A. Montag & AssociDavid Flint ates; Michelle Sullivan, Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Insurance Services; and Brooke Weinmann, Co-Founder of the Atlanta Girls School. Skyland Trail Jackie Montag also announced new Advisory Board members for terms that began in January of 2010. New Advisory Board members include Betsy Akers, Michelle Sullivan Susan Boyd, Louise Burruss, Gwynie Dennard, Rick Elliott, Jocelyn Hunter, Judith James, MD, Colleen Nunn, Marcia Robinson, Mark Rosenberg, MD, and Brooke Weinmann Jeremy Wing. Kim Marks will also serve as an Advisory Board member in her role as the president of the Skyland Trail Associates.

SKYLAND TRAIL

Skyland Trail honored by Georgia Center for Non-profits with the ‘Revolutions’ Award

kyland Trail was honored to receive the ‘Revolutions Award’ as the Outstanding Non-profit Organization at the 18th annual Georgia Nonprofit Summit held May 12, 2009. The Revolutions Award recognizes revolutionary leaders and organizations within Georgia’s Nonprofit sector. Skyland Trail received the prestigious honor for its innovative ‘recovery communities’ and its on-site primary care clinic.

Personality Disorder Diagnosis and Treatment: Empirically-Informed Clinical Practice Co-Sponsored by Metropolitan Counseling Services, Atlanta, GA Presented by: Jared Defife, Ph.D., Clinical Psychology Research Scientist at Emory University and Associate Director of the Laboratory of Personality and Psychopathology From L-R, Skyland Trail Chairman of the Board Mark West and President Beth Finnerty; Christina Lennon, Executive Director of the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation (Outstanding Nonprofit Leader); Usher (Emerging Philanthropist); Ingrid Saunders Jones of the Coca Cola Foundation (Legendary Philanthropic Leader).

HONORS SKYL AND TRAIL CLINICAL TEAM W I T H ‘ H E R O E S I N T H E F I G H T ’ AWA R D ental Health America of Georgia named Skyland Trail’s clinical team as its 2009 ‘Heroes in the Fight’ award recipient. Skyland Trail’s multidisciplinary clinical team is led by Medical Director Ray Kotwicki, MD, MPH, and includes a roster of dedicated mental health professionals and master’s level clinicians incorporating social workers, psychologists, primary counselors and family therapists. Specialty positions include adjunctive and recreational therapy, nursing, and pastoral counseling. ‘Heroes in the Fight’ was implemented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Mental Health America advocacy organizations in participating mental health communities across the United States. The program celebrates dignity, courage, hope, and recovery in the ongoing treatment of persons with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) by recognizing ‘Heroes’ who provide care and support for them and their families.

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

Lunch & Learn Series Full-Day Workshop June 4, 2010; 9:00 am to 3:30 pm

M E N TA L H E A LT H A M E R I C A O F G E O R G IA

Skyland Trail Educational Events:

July 23, 2010; 11:30 am

Trauma in Serious Mental Illness: The Silent Partner in Comorbidity Presented by: Kathy Steele, MN, CS, Immediate Past President, International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation Clinical Director, Metropolitan Counseling Services, Atlanta, GA August 20, 2010; 11:30 am

Real Men Do Cry: Age Specific Intervention and Treatment Approaches for Baby Boomers and Older Adults Co-Sponsored by the Hanley Center Presented by: Michael Walsh, MS, CAP, BRII, Director of Business Development and Admissions, Hanley Center, West Palm Beach, FL Please note that registration information and detailed program information can be found on our Web site, www.skylandtrail.org.

Community Education Series Co-sponsored by Mental Health America of Georgia October 7, 2010; 6:30 pm

Befriending Grief: Nurturing a Healthy Relationship with the Process of Loss Presented by: Stewart Smith, LPC, NCC, Clinical Coordinator for The Link’s Resource Center for Suicide Prevention & Aftercare

SPRING 2010

news

A L O N G T H E WAY

Skyland Trail Clients Honored at Southeastern Flower Show

Skyland Trail Partners with Morehouse on Primary Care Study

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

N E W B OA R D O F DIRECTORS AND A D V I S O RY B OA R D MEMBERS FOR 2010

SKYLAND TRAIL

Skyland Trail honored by Georgia Center for Non-profits with the ‘Revolutions’ Award

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

Lunch & Learn Series Full-Day Workshop June 4, 2010; 9:00 am to 3:30 pm

M E N TA L H E A LT H A M E R I C A O F G E O R G IA

Skyland Trail Educational Events:

July 23, 2010; 11:30 am

Community Education Series Co-sponsored by Mental Health America of Georgia October 7, 2010; 6:30 pm

SPRING 2010

feature

PAT H TO R E C OV E RY

frequently to cope with his depression, which would trigger Sandra Quesenberry and her husband ran their own a demon he still fights to control today. Wes began attendfood brokerage business in Miami before separating in ing the Georgia College & State University Counseling 1992. Though Wes sometimes isolated himself from friends, his mother recalls her only son’s childhood with Center, where he found an advocate in Director Mary Jane fond memories. Phillips, PhD, LPC. At the time, Wes was involved in an “I always saw Wes as a happy kid,” said Sandra. “I didorganization for gay and lesbian students that Dr. Phillips n’t start seeing the changes in his personality until college.” helped support. That organization is known today on After graduating from Gulliver Preparatory School Georgia College & State’s campus as ‘Pride Allegiance.’ Wes credits Dr. Phillips and her support for helping him ultiin 1993, Wes attended Emory College at Oxford in mately secure his degree. Oxford, GA. From the very beginning, he found college “Mary Jane Phillips was a big advocate for student suplife difficult. port organizations, and she was a big “I have a learning disability, so I was having a hard time keeping up with the supporter of mine,” said Wes. “I owe schoolwork,” said Wes. “On top of that, her a debt of gratitude.” I was beginning to struggle internally; I Dr. Phillips recalled Wes’ story, was having a personal identity crisis.” and focused on a single word as she Wes’ inner turmoil was a result of described his journey. numerous factors. His parents had sepa“Perseverance…some have it and some don’t,” said Phillips. “No one is rated during his junior year of high perfect; no one does it exactly right school. Furthermore, he had come to the first time around. I’m glad Wes grips the following year with the fact persevered.” that he was gay, though he told no one. Struggling to make sense of it all and STRUGGLES CONTINUE keeping secrets from those closest to After earning his degree in him, Wes became depressed. History, Wes moved to Atlanta to “I was pretty lost at the time, asking begin looking for work and to be near myself ‘who am I?’,” he said. “I got his mother, who is employed at involved with theatre competition and Samaritan Counseling Center of served as a host for the student admisAtlanta. In what would become a sion group, but I couldn’t get over that theme of sorts over the next eight sense of depression.” years, Wes worked some odd jobs Having hidden his secret for two until he ran out of money. His father years, the truth finally came to the surtold him to move back to Florida face on a drive to the mountains with his mother just after Wes’ freshman year where he worked briefly for a travel of college. Though surprised, she was agency. His depression was growing supportive. But not everyone else was. worse with each passing day. After two years at Emory at Oxford, “Everything in my life was Wes transferred to Georgia College & volatile,” he said. “I couldn’t figure out —SHELLEY DANSER State University in Milledgeville, GA., what I wanted to do. I had no idea where his depression would continue who I was.” to worsen. Wes decided that he needed a change of scenery and “There were some incidents with other students—my moved to Dallas, TX and then to Kansas City, MO. He car was even vandalized a couple of times,” said Wes. bounced around jobs in both places and spent his entire “I was still dealing with a lot of the same issues that had 401K before finally moving back to Atlanta. Wes estimates troubled me at Emory, and I can remember feeling very that by the time he was 29, he had been through close to alone during that time period.” 20 jobs and nearly as many relationships. His drinking was School was still difficult for Wes. Exacerbating his still a serious issue and, according to his mother, he was trouble in the classroom, he began drinking alcohol becoming deceptive.

It was important for Wes to see that the issues he was dealing with were okay to talk about. He was able to begin his healing by opening up about his past.

I went from being someone who didn’t want to admit I had a problem or be stigmatized

due to mental illness to a person that wants to tell my story and help others.

—WES QUESENBERRY

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

Opening Up

BENEFITS OF LAUGHTER PATRON PARTY HONORS FRIENDS AND MAJOR SPONSORS

kyland Trail extends its warmest thanks to Nancy and Steve Fallon for opening their home to donors, friends, and sponsors at the Patron Party for Benefits of Laughter 2009. Hunter Coords, Allison Coords, Skyland Trail President Beth Finnerty, Billy Huger, Felicia Huger

Claudia de Mayo, Karen Parker, Blanton Winship, Lou Winship

Journey of Self Discovery Leads to and from Skyland Trail

Chris Willett, Benefits of Laughter Co-Chair Elizabeth Willett, Nancy Fallon, Steve Fallon

Louise Burress, Jenny Pruitt, Tom Kaye, Glyn Weakley

Nancy Bryant, Sara Walker, Liz Lazarus

rowing up in Coral Gables, FL, Wes Quesenberry, now

35 years old, looks back and struggles to identify any one event that led to his long-term

THIRD ANNUAL ASSOCIATES LUNCHEON ANOTHER HUGE SUCCESS

kyland Trail’s Third Annual Associates Luncheon raised over $33,000 for Skyland Trail’s direct client services. The afternoon featured guest speaker and best-selling author Tommy Newberry and fashions by Saks Fifth Avenue. Co-chairs for the luncheon were Associates President Kim Marks and Vice President Sarah

Goodman. Event sponsors included VEININNOVATIONS; Signature FD; Atlanta Fine Homes, Sotheby’s International Realty; Anna Paré, M.D. Dermatology Consultants; Tony Brewer & Company; and Sherlock’s Wine Merchants.

depression and diagnosis of Associates President Kim Marks, Guest Speaker Tommy Newbury, Associates Vice President Sarah Goodman

bipolar disorder. Instead, he traces a chain of factors through college and then in his twenties that combined to confront Wes and his family with the seriousness of his illness in early 2005: “I was living an unhealthy life and was making poor decision after poor decision,” Wes says now. “I had basically hit rock bottom.”

BY Anna Paré, M.D., Kristin Newberry, Page Morocco, Leslie Wierman

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

Beth Jones, Dottie Fuqua, Stephanie Blank

Michele New of Saks Fifth Avenue, Michelle Sullivan, Terry Vawter of Atlanta Fine Homes of Sotheby’s International Realty, and Shelby Gutenberger of VEININNOVATIONS. SPRING 2010

C HAS ST RONG

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

feature

PAT H TO R E C OV E RY

It was important for Wes to see that the issues he was dealing with were okay to talk about. He was able to begin his healing by opening up about his past.

I went from being someone who didn’t want to admit I had a problem or be stigmatized

due to mental illness to a person that wants to tell my story and help others.

—WES QUESENBERRY

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

feature

PAT H TO R E C OV E RY

I’ve bounced back from extreme heartache to living a much healthier life. So much of that has to do with Skyland Trail. —WES QUESENBERRY “There were numerous instances in which his father and I caught Wes in some troubling lies,” said Sandra. “I was worried and sad. I saw a young man on a path of destruction.” Watching her son’s life begin to spin out of control, Sandra’s frustrations and worries were ever-present. “As a parent, you feel helpless,” she said. “To make real changes in your life, you have to want to change. I wasn’t sure at the time if Wes did.” Wes was seeing an Atlanta psychiatrist that properly diagnosed him with bipolar disorder and put him on proper medication. A colleague of Sandra’s at Samaritan Counseling Center heard Wes’ story and recommended Skyland Trail to the family. “My family had an intervention not long after I’d been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and they talked to me about going to Skyland Trail,” said Wes. “I remember thinking ‘I’m not crazy’. I don’t belong in a place like that. But I decided that if they wanted to help me, I would give it a try. It would end up being one of the

Wes and counselor Shelley Danser reconnect on the Skyland Trail campus.

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

best decisions of my life.” During his third day at Skyland Trail, Wes said he experienced a moment that changed him forever. “I was in a group and everyone was sharing their stories,” he said. “All of a sudden, emotions just started pouring out of me. I had never opened up like that before. And everyone was so supportive. I talked about everything...I told these people I barely knew that I was here because I needed to get better for my family.” Wes took an active approach to the treatment methods he learned for coping with his mental illness. He found outlets in Skyland Trail’s adjunctive therapy programs, particularly art and horticultural therapy, and created a bond with counselor Shelley Danser. “I think one of the most special things about Skyland Trail for someone like Wes is that sense of camaraderie you have with the other clients,” said Danser. “It was important for Wes to see that the issues he was dealing with were okay to talk about. He was able to begin his healing by opening up about his past.” SKYLAND TRAIL

feature

PAT H TO R E C OV E RY

Wes and counselor Shelley Danser reconnect on the Skyland Trail campus.

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

healthcare Another vital aspect of Wes’ recovery came in Friday morning men’s groups. “I wasn’t always able to talk with my dad about everything in my life, so these sessions had a lasting effect,” said Wes. “I could sit down and talk one-on-one about anything.” Over the course of his treatment at Skyland Trail, Wes’ personality and demeanor brightened. He became more outgoing, and by the time he was ready to discharge many months later, he left Skyland Trail with new motivation to live a healthier life. “I knew I had people at Skyland Trail that truly care about me,” he said. “With everything I do now, I’m always thinking about making everyone there proud of me.” His mother said that her son has made great strides in the years since his time at Skyland Trail. “Wes can hold down a job; he’s stopped drinking; he’s going to church,” said Sandra. “There were some true strains on our relationship, but we have been able to build our relationship back steadily. I attribute Wes’ growth to his time at Skyland Trail. Nothing else was working, but he began to turn his life around slowly but surely after his time there. I’m very grateful.” Today, Wes is living in Norcross, GA and working as a Trade Desk Specialist for World Wes speaks to old friends at Financial Group in Johns Skyland Trail’s 2009 Homecoming Celebration. Creek, GA, having worked his way up from the mailroom just two-and-a-half years ago. He has maintained a steady relationship of five years, and has joined Toastmasters International, and served as his club’s Sergeant at Arms. Wes even spoke at Skyland Trail’s 2009 Homecoming Celebration last October, inspiring clients and staff with his success story. “I went from being someone who didn’t want to admit I had a problem or be stigmatized due to mental illness to a person that wants to tell my story and help others,” said Wes. “I want to prove to the world that someone with a mental illness can thrive. I’ve bounced back from extreme heartache to living a much healthier life. So much of that has to do with Skyland Trail.” w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

M E N TA L H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E

Mental Health Parity Insures More Americans R E G U L AT I O N S F O R M E N TA L H E A LT H PA R I T Y AC T TO O K E F F E C T O N J A N UA RY 2 9 , 2 0 1 0

n a landmark victory for mental health advocates everywhere, the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) of 2008 took effect on January 29, 2010 when federal agencies issued long-awaited regulations on the bill. The MHPAEA ensures that more than one-third of all Americans, or roughly 113 million people, will have the right to non-discriminatory mental health coverage. The bill states that psychological conditions must be treated equivalently to physical illnesses. MHPAEA applies to group health insurance plans—typically offered by employers with 50 or more workers whose group health plans choose to offer mental health or substance use disorder benefits. The MHPAEA legislation was included in the economic bailout plan that former President George W. Bush signed into law in October of 2008.

M AY I S M E N TA L H E A LT H AWA R E N E S S M O N T H

kyland Trail is proud to celebrate ‘Mental Health Awareness Month’ during May. Mental Health America has coined the slogan ‘Live Your Life Well’ as this year’s traditional theme, challenging all of us in the healthcare industry to promote health and wellness in homes, comlive your life munities, SM schools, and FROM MENTAL HEALTH AMERICA to educate the community at large. Mental Health America created ‘Live Your Life Well’ as a national public education campaign dedicated to helping people better cope with stress and enhancing their well-being. Stress can take a huge toll on a person’s health and mood, but evidencebased tools can help counterbalance these effects. Each year, Skyland Trail celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month with its annual Arts in the Garden celebration. The theme of this year’s event was Honoring Our Journey. The day celebrated the creative talents of consumers with mental illness, and hundreds of Atlantans converged upon the Skyland Trail campus to share a day of mental health education, art exhibits, workshops, and games.

well

SPRING 2010

Chas Strong

BACKGROUND ON MENTAL HEALTH PARITY MHPAEA greatly expands on an earlier law, the Mental Health Parity Act (MHPA) that has been in place since 1996. The MHPA already required parity coverage for annual and lifetime dollar limits on mental health benefits, but it permitted certain financial and treatment limitations. In many cases, insurers found loopholes in the law, enabling them to set different limits on mental health outpatient visits or hospital days, as well as charge different co-payments for mental health services. These limitations and discrepancies prevented many Americans from seeking treatment for mental health care issues, despite growing data that suggests mental health concerns are affecting high percentages of the American public. According to the Surgeon General’s Report on Mental Health, about 20 percent of the U.S. population is affected by mental disorders during a given year, and 30,000 Americans commit suicide every year, invariably the result of mental 9

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

illness. Henry Harbin, MD, founder and former Chairman of the Board of Magellan Health Services and consultant to the recent regulations handed down on parity, explained the vital necessity for ending insurance descrimination: “Mental illness is a significant public health issue in this country, one that costs society millions and millions of dollars in healthcare expenditures, lost wages, absenteeism and lower productivity, to say nothing of the intangible cost of otherwise preventable human suffering,” said Harbin. “This public health issue is exacerbated by the unfortunate stigma associated with seeking help for these types of problems as well as the financial disincentive to do so created by limited mental health benefits.” In the twelve years after the MHPA was enacted in 1996, impassioned advocates of mental health care such as Betty Ford, Rosalynn Carter and Tipper Gore pleaded with Congress to expand insurance parity. Republican Representative Patrick J. Kennedy of Rhode Island, who has been treated for depression and drug dependence, and Democratic Representative Jim Ramstad of Minnesota, who is a recovering alcoholic, took up the fight within Congress. The House bill would eventually be named for Senator Paul Wellstone, the Minnesota Democrat killed in a plane crash in 2002. Wellstone had a brother with severe mental illness. The main sponsor of the Senate bill would be Pete V. Domenici, Republican of New Mexico, who has a daughter with schizophrenia. Both men were driving forces behind improving the 1996 MHPA. THE EFFECTS OF THE MENTAL HEALTH PARITY AND ADDICTION EQUITY ACT The new law amends the MHPA to require that a group health plan of 50 or more employees that provides both medical and mental health benefits must provide mental health SKYLAND TRAIL

M E N TA L H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E

Mental Health Parity Insures More Americans R E G U L AT I O N S F O R M E N TA L H E A LT H PA R I T Y AC T TO O K E F F E C T O N J A N UA RY 2 9 , 2 0 1 0

M AY I S M E N TA L H E A LT H AWA R E N E S S M O N T H

well

SPRING 2010

Chas Strong

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

editorial • The stigma has begun to fade as members of the armed and substance abuse benefits equal to medical benefits. forces return to America with serious mental illnesses, In the past, insurance companies could place strict limits caused by trauma in battle defending our country. on coverage for psychotherapy visits, require higher co-pay• Parity has proved workable when implemented at the ments for medication, and allow fewer reimbursed days for state level and in the health insurance program for mental health hospitalization. The MHPAEA wipes away these federal employees. restrictions, enabling people with illnesses like depression, Jaeger said from an advocacy standpoint, the new parischizophrenia, eating disorders, and alcohol and drug abuse to ty laws are a step in the right direction. obtain affordable treatment under their insurance plan. “This is a great first step,” she said. “You can’t be anySkyland Trail Medical Director Ray Kotwicki, MD, MPH thing less than pleased to see that, at the very least, mental said the new mental health parity legislation has been a long health is in the public consciousness.” time coming due to the fact that illness of the brain should be treated just like illness anywhere else in the body. STILL MUCH WORK LEFT TO BE DONE “Mental illnesses are thought to be developed according While Jaeger and Dr. Harbin lauded the advances in to a ‘stress-diathesis’ model. Diathesis in Latin refers to a mental health parity for now, they are quick to caution that genetic predisposition. Coupled with life stressors like childthe MHPAEA still does not fully address mental health hood traumas, losses of relationships, and even exposure to advocates’ concerns. For one, uninsured individuals still are substances such as marijuana or alcohol, the genes for certain unaffected by the new broader coverage. According to a mental illnesses are “activated” and signs and symptoms of recent Gallup Poll, 16 percent of the nation does not have the illness can emerge,” said Kotwicki. “It’s ridiculous to imagmedical coverage. Furthermore, employers with less than ine that insurance companies would consider a mental illness 50 employees are not required to abide by the new mental like schizophrenia as something that is voluntary and not health parity regulations. Harbin noted that insurance paricovered by insurance. Parity hopefully will mandate that ty will only have a modest effect of about one percent on mental illnesses are medical illnesses and individuals diagmost premiums. nosed with them deserve treatment just like someone with “Clearly, this bill is no panacea,” said Jaegar. “I think diabetes or cancer.” we will all be watching very closely to see how it works. Kotwicki’s frustration has been echoed by much of the Once we’re able to fill in some of the gaps and view the data mental health community over the years. Despite that, mental of how effective insurance parity is for the mental health health has remained a ‘second-class citizen’ of sorts in consumers it affects, we’ll be able to know more. For now, I Washington until recently. Ellyn Jaeger, Director of Public am certainly satisfied with the progress.” Policy at Mental Health America of Georgia, explained why: Harbin said the current regulations on parity are just “I think there are a lot of reasons that stigma still exists, but the main one is that people don’t understand it so they push it aside,” The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity she said. “People feel like they should fear a person with schizophrenia. Act ensures that more than one-third of all Americans, We absolutely have to get past that or roughly 113 million people, will have the right to mindset.” non-discriminatory mental health coverage. And it appears most politicians in Washington have pushed past this the beginning of what he expects to be an evolving process. outdated thinking. Some of the reasons mental health parity He also indicated that regulators will reconvene in May to gained widespread political support include: amend any items that may have been ‘left out’. • Researchers have found biological causes and effective “This is a big step; however, I don’t think this idea of treatments for numerous mental illnesses. true parity will be fully realized unless there is a sustained • A number of companies now specialize in managing focus on implementation,” he said. “The current guidelines mental health benefits, making the cost to insurers and were never meant to be a cookbook. I assert that it will employers more affordable. take more knowledge and compliance by employers and • Employers have found that productivity tends to increase insurers before we can really say how much progress has and lost work days decrease after workers are treated for been made.” mental illnesses. w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

M E S S AG E F RO M T H E M E D I C A L D I R E C TO R

The Ripple Effect: Clinical model frames mental health training By Ray Kotwicki, M.D., M.P.H.

Trainees from many schools and universities vie for ne integral piece of Skyland Trail’s mission is to opportunities to learn from our expert staff and willing provide to others a model of respectful, eviclients. Between eight and 13 counseling interns annually dence-based, and holistic services for replication. spend time learning about our model of care and recovery While replication of our model of care has not from mental illnesses. Counseling interns from Georgia meant opening branches of Skyland Trail across the nation, the ripple effect of training future mental health clinicians has led to spreading our story to many other Seeing that patients can get better and recover from communities and organizations. Training future mental health cliniserious mental illnesses gives me hope that I can make cians and other health care professionals about our innovative and effective a huge difference in the lives of my future patients. programs and services represents per—STUDENT INTERN haps the most important method of replicating Skyland Trail’s model of State University, Argosy, the University of Georgia, Georgia care and—ultimately—helping many individuals recover Southern University and many other reputable institutions from behavioral disorders to lead happy, productive, and learn about the practical clinical applications of counseling autonomous lives. theories during their internships. We also host graduate students in Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University, as well as from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur. Other interns include third and fourth year medical students from Emory who are studying psychiatry as part of their required medical curriculum, and graduate students from Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health. In 2009 and 2010, five senior medical students completed elective rotations at Skyland Trail in anticipation of entering psychiatry residencies the following year. One elective student commented, “Skyland Trail sets the bar for quality psychiatric training. Seeing that patients can get better and recover from serious mental illnesses gives me hope that I can make a huge difference in the lives of my future patients. Every physician needs to have an Skyland Trail Medical Director Ray Kotwicki addresses interns. experience like this.” Demonstrating that clients can have

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

SPRING 2010

M E S S AG E F RO M T H E M E D I C A L D I R E C TO R

The Ripple Effect: Clinical model frames mental health training By Ray Kotwicki, M.D., M.P.H.

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

events hope for their lives and that it can be very exciting to be fessional Advisory Board members attend three on-site part of this recovery process is extremely formative in new continuing medical education programs annually, during health care professionals’ careers. which the most recent psychiatric topics and treatment Our primary care clinic and wellness programs have advancements are explored. Even seasoned professionals benefit from the training opportunities provided through similarly served a crucial role in educating health care our educational outreach. providers about the inextricable link between physical and Most importantly, the mental health in which Skyland clients we serve benefit from Trail has been a pioneer. Brian the robust training programs McGregor, a fellow from the Satcher Health Leadership at Skyland Trail. Trainees typiInstitute at the Morehouse cally have more time to spend School of Medicine, completed a with individuals, and patients practicum project focusing on often appreciate the extra this interface, and devising effort and attention they potential strategies to assist other receive from our students. mental health programs in inteHaving inquisitive and eager grating primary care into their trainees challenge staff ’s assumptions and conceptualmodels of service. Our trailblazizations of patients’ cases is ing integration of mental and also very useful, as looking at physical health was similarly situations with a fresh set of noted and used as a model for eyes can often reveal new replication through a joint Health information and ways of Skyland Trail—Mental Replication of Skyland Trail America community education understanding it. Trainees’ event open to the public. curiosity for knowledge and through the ripple effect Future health care profespassionate inquiry into conof training and education sionals are not the only ones who sumers’ lives also serves as a learn from Skyland Trail’s model. model for what we hope to dovetails well with the Current professionals receive teach our patients: life’s lessons training about our continuously can provide invaluable data mission of our organization evolving programs and services. from which important ideas and our vision to help can be learned. The Skyland Trail Integrative Skyland Trail is one large Medical Recovery Model that individuals with learning community. Future was developed and instituted health care professionals, curwithin our organization in June mental illnesses recover rent professionals, patients and 2007, has been presented to other and thrive in life. staff join together to learn mental health professionals as an example of innovative programfrom one another and share ming and a “best practice.” ideas about ways to demonProfessionals at the American strate that recovery from Psychiatric Association, the Georgia Psychiatric Physicians serious mental illnesses is possible. Participating in this Association, the Association of Ambulatory Behavioral educational journey is a primary reason why our clinical Healthcare and others have learned about this model of care staff invest in the often-tiring, challenging, and difficult work. It is truly exciting to train others who in turn might and the excellent outcomes our patients experience through share our philosophies and model of care. Replication of it. Moreover, Skyland Trail acts as the disseminator of new information and research data, annually hosting several Skyland Trail through the ripple effect of training and educontinuing education courses in partnership with Mental cation dovetails well with the mission of our organization Health America, the Hanley Center, and the Employee and our vision to help individuals with mental illnesses Assistance Professionals Association. Skyland Trail’s Prorecover and thrive in life. w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

G R AT I T U D E A N D G I V I N G

BENEFITS OF LAUGHTER RAISES MONEY FOR FINANCIAL AID PROGRAM

he 12th annual Benefits of Laughter gala celebrated Skyland Trail’s 20 years of service to the Atlanta community, and recognized founding and long-time board volunteers for their leadership in helping build Skyland Trail into one of the country’s most Rex Fuqua, Boog respected and Candler, Duvall Fuqua innovative leaders in mental health treatment. Held at the InterContinental Hotel Buckhead on October 23, 2009, Benefits of Laughter was organized by Co-Chairs Susan Crisler, Elizabeth Willett and

Dina Woodruff, and raised nearly $500,000 for Skyland Trail’s Financial Aid Program. Special thanks to Corporate Committee Co-Chairs John Gordon and Tommy Hills, who played instrumental roles in securing sponsors,

Andrea and Tim Rollins, Amy Rollins Kreisler, Julie Levine, Nevin Kreisler

Bart Miller, Carol Miller, Shelby Bryant, Dick Bryant

including AirTran Airways, Dorothy C. Fuqua and the J.B. Fuqua Foundation, RBC Bank, Chris Willett of the Willett Group at Morgan Keegan, and BNY Mellon Private Wealth Management.

From L-R, Benefits of Laughter 2009 Co-Chairs Mary Virginia Coffman, Peter Coffman, Elizabeth Willett, Susan Crisler, and Dina Skyland Trail Chairman of the Board Mark Woodruff pictured with Skyland Trail West, Dana Halberg, Larry Pless President Beth Finnerty

Lizannne Stephenson, Tony Montag, Jackie Montag

WXIA COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD DINNER

riends, donors and staff celebrated together when Skyland Trail was honored as the beneficiary of the 11Alive Community Service Awards dinner held April 20 at the

Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta. Now in its 35th year, the CSA honored 12 exceptional community volunteers while the event is taped live for broadcast on

WXIA 11Alive. Advisory Board member Sally Dorsey, who is also a CSA trustee, served as Dinner Chair for the evening gala.

Betty Ann Inman, Mary Anne Quin and Dr. Andy Currie

Skyland Trail President Beth Finnerty, Sally Dorsey and Carol Goodman

Marjorie and Robert Wynne Sr.

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

SPRING 2010

G R AT I T U D E A N D G I V I N G

BENEFITS OF LAUGHTER RAISES MONEY FOR FINANCIAL AID PROGRAM

Andrea and Tim Rollins, Amy Rollins Kreisler, Julie Levine, Nevin Kreisler

Bart Miller, Carol Miller, Shelby Bryant, Dick Bryant

including AirTran Airways, Dorothy C. Fuqua and the J.B. Fuqua Foundation, RBC Bank, Chris Willett of the Willett Group at Morgan Keegan, and BNY Mellon Private Wealth Management.

Lizannne Stephenson, Tony Montag, Jackie Montag

WXIA COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD DINNER

riends, donors and staff celebrated together when Skyland Trail was honored as the beneficiary of the 11Alive Community Service Awards dinner held April 20 at the

Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta. Now in its 35th year, the CSA honored 12 exceptional community volunteers while the event is taped live for broadcast on

WXIA 11Alive. Advisory Board member Sally Dorsey, who is also a CSA trustee, served as Dinner Chair for the evening gala.

Betty Ann Inman, Mary Anne Quin and Dr. Andy Currie

Skyland Trail President Beth Finnerty, Sally Dorsey and Carol Goodman

Marjorie and Robert Wynne Sr.

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

SKYLAND TRAIL

Opening Up

BENEFITS OF LAUGHTER PATRON PARTY HONORS FRIENDS AND MAJOR SPONSORS

Claudia de Mayo, Karen Parker, Blanton Winship, Lou Winship

Journey of Self Discovery Leads to and from Skyland Trail

Chris Willett, Benefits of Laughter Co-Chair Elizabeth Willett, Nancy Fallon, Steve Fallon

Louise Burress, Jenny Pruitt, Tom Kaye, Glyn Weakley

Nancy Bryant, Sara Walker, Liz Lazarus

rowing up in Coral Gables, FL, Wes Quesenberry, now

35 years old, looks back and struggles to identify any one event that led to his long-term

THIRD ANNUAL ASSOCIATES LUNCHEON ANOTHER HUGE SUCCESS

depression and diagnosis of Associates President Kim Marks, Guest Speaker Tommy Newbury, Associates Vice President Sarah Goodman

BY Anna Paré, M.D., Kristin Newberry, Page Morocco, Leslie Wierman

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

Beth Jones, Dottie Fuqua, Stephanie Blank

Michele New of Saks Fifth Avenue, Michelle Sullivan, Terry Vawter of Atlanta Fine Homes of Sotheby’s International Realty, and Shelby Gutenberger of VEININNOVATIONS. SPRING 2010

C HAS ST RONG

w w w. s ky l a n d t ra i l . o r g

SPRING 2010

update

PLANNED GIVING

EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF PLANNED GIFTS TO SKYLAND TRAIL

Giving Options that Fit with Individual Philanthropic Goals

or many individuals, supporting the work of their alma mater or favorite non-profit is second nature. And for many organizations, contributions from individuals are their greatest sources of funding. Much of this support is from outright gifts, raised through annual giving and capital campaigns. At Skyland Trail, our record of successful fundraising in both areas has been a source of deep-felt gratitude to loyal donors who have worked hard to grow our organization for the past 20-plus years. As we have grown, earning the trust of clients, families and donors, as well as the respect and confidence of the mental health community nationwide, we have also grown cognizant of the critical importance to sustain Skyland Trail for the future. We want to ensure there is a place for adults with mental illness to find quality treatment, a place that can be trusted to provide hope to families in need. Planned giving is one avenue to help meet this critical future need, giving our passionate friends and donors several options to assist Skyland Trail financially, without compromising their financial security. These options include a wide variety of gift assets, in addition to including a bequest to Skyland Trail in your will or trust. Making a bequest is probably the simplest form of ensuring a future gift. It is as easy as inserting a few sentences in your will, and it’s tax-friendly. Your estate is entitled to an unlimited estate tax charitable deduction for bequests to qualifying charities and non-profits.

Other planned giving options to consider include: Charitable Remainder Trusts

When you establish the trust, you designate yourself and/or other persons as the income beneficiary for life, or for a period of time up to 20 years. At the end of that period, your designated charity will receive the remaining trust assets.

Charitable Lead Trusts

You name a charity as the income beneficiary of your trust, the charity receives annual distributions during the term of the trust, and at the end of the trust term, the remaining assets return to you or to a designee, usually a family member.

Life Insurance

You can transfer the ownership of a life insurance policy to Skyland Trail, and the value of the policy at the time of the ownership transfer is tax deductible to the donor. It is always a good idea to consult with professionals to consider which planned giving strategy is best for you, since some are more complex than others. To discuss options with Skyland Trail, please contact John Turman at 678-686-5948 or jturman@skylandtrail.org.

LEADERSHIP Board Members Mark C. West, Chairman Richard C. Parker, Chairman, Executive Committee John C. Gordon, Treasurer Marjorie W. Wynne, Secretary Dick Bryant Rev. Sam Candler Cecil Conlee William H. Fox, Ph.D. David Flint J. Rex Fuqua Dana Halberg Karen H. H’Doubler Thomas D. Hills Jim Howard Betty Ann Inman Clay Jackson Beth C. Jones Amy Rollins Kreisler Liz Lazarus J. Bart Miller Jackie Montag Michelle Sullivan Michael Tompkins Brooke Weinmann Emeritus Directors O. Alvin Barge, Jr. Dorothy C. Fuqua Edward E. Noble Charles B. West Allison F. Williams Blanton C. Winship Advisory Board Members Bob Walker, Chairman Betsy Akers Ron Bachmann Dale Belles Susan Boyd Nancy Bryant Louise Burruss Stan Conway Robert Page Crozer Ron Day Claudia de Mayo Gwynie Dennard Sally Dorsey Rick Elliot Betsy Glenn Nancy Glenn Carol Goodman Richard Harris Meg Heyer Glenn Hicks Hilton Howell, Jr. Billy Huger Bob Hughes Jocelyn Hunter Don Inman Judith James, MD Stan Jones Steve Koonin Robin Loudermilk Betts Love Melissa Lowe Jackie Montag Cynthia J. Moreland Keith Morris Jeff Muir Colleen Nunn Karen Parker Patricia Reid Marcia Robinson John Rooker Mark Rosenberg, MD Sally Williamson Jeremy Wing Robby Wynne John B. Zellars, Jr. Kim Marks Associate President

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

13th Annual Benefits of Laughter

Elizabeth E. Finnerty President/CEO

EVENT CHAIRS Anne Hennessy Leslie Wierman 2 0 1 0 C O R P O R AT E COMMITTEE Jim Kelley, Chair Louise Burruss Rich D’Amaro Hunter Ewing Karen H’Doubler Teri Hartman Bill Henagan Peter Hennessy Tommy Hills Hunter Holliday Scott Klinger Billy Levine Jim Ramseur A.J. Robinson David Wierman

Thursday, October 21, 2010 LOCATION:

St. Regis Atlanta Buckhead

RECEPTION:

6:30 p.m.

DINNER AND PROGRAM: 2 0 1 0 PA T R O N COMMITTEE Anna and Richard Paré, Co-Chair Lisa and John Snodgrass, Co-Chair Meg and Jeff Arnold Wendy and Neal Aronson Nancy and Doug Bryant Carolyn and Marcelo Ferrari Mary Frances and Tom Garrett Cynthia and Brad Hammond Robin and Hilton Howell Suci and Hardie Jackson Elizabeth and Michael Klump Liz and Mark Lazarus Betts and Dennis Love Kim and Greg Marks Molly and John Mears Anne and John Mori Beth and David Park Sally and Ross Singletary Nola and Andy Stull Terry and Wes Vawter Julie and David Vickers Lauren and Robert Winborne

ENTERTAINMENT BY: HONORARY CHAIRS:

7:30 p.m.

John Heffron

Amy and Cecil Conlee

he Benefits of Laughter gala for Skyland Trail more than lives up to its billing as A Seriously Funny Night. Since 1998, the evening has offered serious enjoyment,

while at the same time making a serious difference in the lives of adults with mental illness. All proceeds from Benefits of Laughter 2010 will go to Skyland Trail’s Financial Aid Fund, to assist clients and families who could not otherwise access or continue treatment. We are grateful to our Event Chairs Leslie Wierman and Anne Hennessy, who are ably assisted by a dedicated team of community and business volunteers. We look forward to seeing you on October 21!

Benefits of Laughter 2010 Co-Chairs Anne Hennessy and Leslie Wierman.

update

PLANNED GIVING

EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF PLANNED GIFTS TO SKYLAND TRAIL

Giving Options that Fit with Individual Philanthropic Goals

Other planned giving options to consider include: Charitable Remainder Trusts

Charitable Lead Trusts

Life Insurance

J O U R N E YS M AG A Z I N E

13th Annual Benefits of Laughter

Elizabeth E. Finnerty President/CEO

Thursday, October 21, 2010 LOCATION:

St. Regis Atlanta Buckhead

RECEPTION:

6:30 p.m.

ENTERTAINMENT BY: HONORARY CHAIRS:

7:30 p.m.

John Heffron

Amy and Cecil Conlee

he Benefits of Laughter gala for Skyland Trail more than lives up to its billing as A Seriously Funny Night. Since 1998, the evening has offered serious enjoyment,

Benefits of Laughter 2010 Co-Chairs Anne Hennessy and Leslie Wierman.

PUBLICATION OF THE GEORGE WEST MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

1961 North Druid Hills Road Atlanta, Georgia 30329 tel 404-315-8333 fax: 404-315-9839 www.skylandtrail.org

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID ATLANTA, GA PERMIT NO. 3536

A D D R E S S S E RV I C E R E Q U E S T E D

Skyland Trail South Renovations Completed

any thanks to our generous donors who supported the Initiative for Program and Campus Expansion (ICE) campaign and to the Southeastern Horticulture Society for honoring Skyland Trail with the “Legacy Garden” adjacent to the facility. Renovations were completed in the fall of 2009, providing a wonderful residence for clients and beautifully landscaped green space for outdoor activities and relaxation.