B U S I N E SS
Improved Mental Wellness
BY: CALLIE COLLINS
Restore Behavioral Health brings a variety of approaches to Norman community
M
ental health services in the era of COVID-19 have perhaps never been so pivotal and so present in the daily lives of our fellow Normanites. Kelly Lashar, co-founder of Restore Behavioral Health, sees its effects in her daily practice. “There is so much burden at this time, from all different angles and facets of life,” said Lashar. “It’s hitting people from every direction.” As a licensed professional counselor candidate, Lashar is an expert in her field who specializes in marriage counseling. As a Biblical counselor, she has the ability to freely incorporate scripture into the care setting if requested by those seeking services. Lashar and fellow therapist Gina Dixon, a licensed professional counselor, started the practice in 2016. The team has expanded to include more than 20 dedicated professionals and interns, who range in areas of specialty and service offerings including Restore Kids.
Some increase in access to services is actually due to telehealth options, which Lashar concluded may help people feel more comfortable to discuss personal issues in their own space and mitigates the usual issues around access, drive time and other potential barriers. “(We are) pretty evenly split between telehealth and in-person visits,” said Lashar. “We will probably continue that service forever now.” Recent expansion of insurance coverage that may make consultation free or available at a lower cost also makes these services more accessible. “One of the challenges we have in our community when it comes to seeking mental health services is the process,” said Lashar. “Sometimes, when people seek therapy, it’s hard to find quickly because there is such a need right now.”
More than 300 people per week visit Restore for their mental health needs.
She emphasized the importance of referrals, which Restore staffers are always willing to offer if they cannot accommodate scheduling.
“The practice has skyrocketed because we’ve been able to meet a need,” said Lashar. “It is vital for our community to come to therapy and take care of themselves.”
Lashar recognizes the inherent courage in overcoming negative feelings around reaching out for help, although she has noticed less stigma around seeking help.
86 | August 2020
Kelly Lashar and Gina Dixon
“People find therapy more comfortable than they expect once they do it,” she said. “I value so much that even calling a person or a business on the phone and asking for help can be anxiety-provoking, and sitting in the car, walking in the building, sitting in front of a person you’ve never met that’s a lot. “Deciding that original ‘I want help’ is a huge step. I honor that the most and treat it as the most precious thing because I know people are often coming from a place of pain and fear. Coming to someone for help is very vulnerable and it’s brave.” Lashar summed up the role of therapy by saying “the overarching heart of most therapists is everyone matters and therapy is a safe place.” Learn more about Restore and its team at www.restore-bh.com. – BSM
