Improved Mental Wellness

Restore Behavioral Health brings a variety of approaches to Norman community

Mental 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.

More than 300 people per week visit Restore for their mental health needs.

“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.”

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.”

She emphasized the importance of referrals, which Restore staffers are always willing to offer if they cannot accommodate scheduling.

Lashar recognizes the inherent courage in overcoming negative feelings around reaching out for help, although she has noticed less stigma around seeking help.

“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

SIX TIPS FOR IMPROVED MENTAL WELLNESS YOU CAN USE TODAY + TWO THERAPY MYTHS FROM GINA DIXON & KELLY LASHAR

Recognize your feelings: “Remember that we will not always feel this way or be this way. Don’t judge the past or fear the future. Be mindful of today,” said Lashar. Practice self-care: Walking and getting fresh air are activities Lashar recommends. Even if you’re in quarantine and have to be confined to your own space, you could choose to sit outdoors and enjoy the sunshine.

Stay engaged with friends and family

: Dixon suggests staying connected to your community, whether through modern methods like Zoom or old-fashioned efforts like mailing letters.

Set reasonable expectations that fit your life:

Many people have been extraordinarily productive during quarantine. Others may feel stuck. Comparison can be problematic. Lashar recommended giving yourself permission to do what you need to do.

Assess what you do control and work within those boundaries:

“Find new and creative ways to stay healthy. Limit your access to media and focus on the things that bring purpose and meaning to your own life,” Dixon said.

Be a source of support for others:

“If we know of anyone who’s alone or you know they lost their job, lost a loved one, it’s okay to reach out and to not feel awkward,” said Lashar. “Tell people you’re thinking about them. Even though we’re all isolated to some degree, we can actually connect more at this time.”

MYTH #1: Therapy is for weak people or broken people. “I come at it from a different angle. You’re strong and brave if you’re reaching out. It’s for yourself, your family and your future.

MYTH #2: Therapy is expensive. There is a spectrum of options, Lashar explained. Agency mental health is free or almost free and sliding scales are often part of the equation. “There are interns who need hours, for example,” she offered.