Press Releases

For more information, contact Cathi Norton, Community Relations Specialist
(812) 330-2887
cnorton@the-center.org

March 7, 2008
Social Skills Training for Persons with Aspergers: Tips for Family and Friends

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Social Skills Training for Persons with Aspergers: Tips for Family and Friends,” featuring Jessica Peters, M.S. Peters will why some social skills interventions are ineffective; clarify the steps of the Building Social Relationships model; identify useful strategies for use in social skills programming, outline the importance of pre-planning and data-recording for social skills programming; and identify how schools, parents, and others can collaborate to promote success.

The workshop will be held Friday, March 21, 2008, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request (with a $5 processing fee for non-CBH employees).

February 14, 2008
Workshop on Functional Family Therapy

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Functional Family Therapy: An Evidence-based Clinical Model for Youth and their Families,” featuring Thomas L. Sexton, Ph.D. Sexton will discuss Functional Family Therapy(FFT) and its use with at-risk youth; outline the guiding principals that make FFT successful and demonstrate the basic clinical model of the therapy.

The workshop will be held Friday, February 22, 2008, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request (with a $5 processing fee for non-CBH employees).

December 5, 2007
Effective Crisis Intervention Response

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Considerations and Strategies for Effective Response in Crisis Intervention,” featuring Matt Oliver, Ph.D. The workshop will: familiarize attendees with intervention techniques used to de-escalate individuals in acute crisis; explain key aspects of lethality assessment for high-risk populations; tell how immediate and emergency detentions are used to facilitate involuntary hospitalization; and offer suggestions on how to work effectively with family members of adult and minor children who are affected by mental illness.

The presentation will be held Friday, December 14, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon on-site request.

October 11, 2007
Talk on Inner Bullies

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Inner Bullies: Turning Inner Enemies to Allies,” featuring the Rev. J. Lynn James., L.M.H.C., M.Div. The workshop will examine the various types of inner bullies, exercises for eliciting them, understanding their purpose in the person’s life, and provide techniques for healing and transforming them from sources of torment to resources of strength.

The presentation will be held Friday, October 19, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon on-site request.

September 19, 2007
CBH Annual Art Show

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to announce their annual Client Art Exhibit at 1315 Hillcrest Rd., in Bedford, on Friday, September 28, 2007 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Art created by center clients will be displayed in gallery fashion throughout the building, refreshments provided; and attendees invited to vote for their favorite art works. The most popular eight art pieces will be printed onto notecards for future sales. Proceeds from these sales go towards replenishing CBH client art supplies for their programs next year. Notecards should become available after Thanksgiving. The public is warmly invited to attend this viewing and celebration of client creativity and skill. For more information, please contact Selena Thompson, 812-279-3591, extension 4616, or view our web site at www.the-center.org.

September 12, 2007
Workshop on Court Preparation & Testimony

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Court preparation & Testimony for Non-Attorney’s, or What You Need to Know Before You Go To Court,” featuring Aviva Orenstein, J.D., I.U. Professor of Law, and Jessica Hersch, ACSW, LCSW, LMFT. The presentation is designed to help social service workers, behavioral health professionals, and all non-attorneys learn how to prepare to testify in court on behalf of consumers they represent.

The presentation will be held Friday, September 21, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon on-site request.

August 20, 2007
CBH Therapists Certified as ASIST Instructors

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) therapists, Cindy Houston and Diana Hastings recently attended a five-day training offered by Livingworks Education, Inc. and became certified instructors in the ASIST Program (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training).

As instructors, Houston and Hastings will now be able to conduct two day interactive presentations for persons wishing to gain skills to intervene with persons considering suicide. The program is a tool to be used by any person to learn howto be comfortable with their own attitudes about suicide, be able to spot clues and warning signs, and not be afraid to address the issue with others. It offers a language for how to intervene and then what to do—how to link that person up with the appropriate next step. Both Houston and Hastings expect to offer the two-day training in the Bloomington community this year.

July 27, 2007
Lenard Award Recipient

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce the winner of the fourth annual Veronica Lenard Award, which recognizes outstanding behavioral healthcare by a CBH staff member. Candidates are nominated by CBH employees, clients, or community members as noteworthy for their creativity, social advocacy and responsiveness to client needs. A selection is then made by a panel of peers. This year’s winner is Mary Heldt, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and Group Leader for the Horizon’s Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Mary has worked for the Center for Behavioral Health for six years. Her name will be added to a commemorative plaque and she’ll receive an honorarium of $1,000.
Andy Matthews, Assistant Manager of PHP, nominated Heldt, citing her dedication to individuals who cope with mental illness, addictions issues, and poverty: “Mary is integrating the Center’s Dual Diagnosis program into the community; addressing wellness issues through a walking program, monitoring nutrition needs and exercise programs, and she never lets any client fall beneath the labels they—or others—may put on themselves. Mary demonstrates a true gratitude for the gift of her own life and is able to touch the hearts of employees and consumers because of this.”
The Lenard Award was established to honor E. Veronica Lenard who for 29 years served clients at CBH with dignity and respect. A tireless advocate for social needs and mental health, Lenard was creative in her treatment approaches, and sensitive to the devastating effect poverty has on those with behavioral health needs.

July 19, 2007
2008 Board of Directors Meeting Schedule Announced

The Board of Directors for Center for Behavioral Health will hold regular meetings to consider and take action on such items as may be brought before it and in accordance with the agenda for said meetings. The meetings will be held at the main CBH location—645 S. Rogers Street, Bloomington, Indiana, unless otherwise announced. A meeting agenda will be available
in advance of each meeting.

July 30, 2007
August 27, 2007
September 24, 2007
October 22, 2007
November 26, 2007
December (no meeting)
January 28, 2008
February 25, 2008
March 24, 2008
April 28, 2008
May 26, 2008 -- Tentative
June 23, 2008

July 2, 2007
Eating Disorders-Bulimia and Anorexia

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Eating Disorders: Identification and Treatment,” featuring Roberta Sherman, Ph.D., F.A.E.D. Sherman will discuss the criteria for identifying Bulimia and Anorexia, effective treatments, and the challenges and successes of managing the disorders.

The presentation will be held Friday, July 27, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

June 6, 2007
Ethics Discussion on Healthcare

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Ethical Implications for Meeting Basic Healthcare Needs: Healthcare as a Moral Issue,” featuring Byron Bangert, Ph.D. Bangert will discuss ethical and moral issues that arise in healthcare services: is healthcare a right? How should the burden of healthcare be distributed, etc.

The presentation will be held Friday, June 15, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

May 15, 2007
Lenard Award Nominations Sought

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) invites CBH staff, clients, referral sources, or other community agencies to submit nominations for the fourth annual Veronica Lenard Award, which recognizes outstanding behavioral healthcare by a CBH staff member. Candidates are nominated as noteworthy for their creativity, social advocacy and responsiveness to client needs. A selection is then made by a panel of peers. The 2007 award winner will receive an honorarium of $1,000; have his or her name added to a commemorative plaque, and be recognized/awarded at the All-Staff meeting on July 20, 2007. Completed nomination forms should be sent in by June 29, 2007 to: Cherlyn Crees, Center for Behavioral Health, 645 S. Rogers St., Bloomington, IN 47403.

The Lenard Award was established to honor E. Veronica Lenard who for 29 years served clients at CBH with dignity and respect. A tireless advocate for social needs and mental health, Lenard was creative in her treatment approaches, and sensitive to the devastating effect poverty has on those with behavioral health needs.

May 10, 2007
Talk on Positive Psychology

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Positive Psychology: A Focus on Mental Health Rather Than Mental Illness,” featuring Brenda Oldstrom, M.A., L.M.H.C., M.div. Oldstrom will define the term “positive psychology” and identify leading contributors to it, the classes and categories of positive emotions, their function and consequences, how to develop more positive emotion and fulfillment for quality of life and mental health.
The presentation will be held Friday, May 18, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

April 10, 2007
Schizophrenia: Translating Evidence Based Treatments (EBTs) and Pharmacological Research Into Best Clinical Practice

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Schizophrenia: Translating Evidence Based Treatments (EBTs) and Pharmacological Research Into Best Clinical Practice,” featuring Jerry Neff, M.D. Dr. Neff will present the findings and limitations of two recent large-scale studies conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and the British Health Service on pharmacological management of Schizophrenia. He will also present information on recognizing the various EBTs for treatment of aspects of Schizophrenia and identify common elements that should be incorporated into best clinical practices in treatment of individuals with Schizophrenia.

The presentation will be held Friday, April 20, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

March 9, 2007
CBH to Offer Free Alcohol Screenings

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to participate in the annual National Alcohol Screening Day campaign. Free screenings and educational materials will be offered from 8:30 a.m. – Noon on Thursday, April 5th at CBH’s main clinic, 645 S. Rogers Street, in Bloomington. Goals of National Alcohol Screening Day are to reduce stigma that prevents people from seeking treatment, provide education on facts about alcohol, and assist individuals to reassess their drinking patterns. Concerned persons interested in learning about alcoholism or about how to judge when alcohol use is becoming problematic, are invited to take advantage of this opportunity. No appointment is necessary and no fee will be charged.

March 6, 2007
Presentation on Attachment Disorders

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Attachment Disorders,” featuring Melody Gongwer, M.D. Gongwer will present an overview of attachment disorders in general including Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), and offer treatment guidelines and recommendations with specific attention to concerns about using coercive or regressive strategies for treatment of RAD.

The presentation will be held Friday, March 23, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

February 8, 2007
Dual Disorders: Addiction and Mental Health

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Addictive and Mental Health Disorders,” featuring Linda Grove-Paul, M.S.W. Grove-Paul will offer information about dual diagnosis services—treatments for people who are suffering from substance abuse and mental illness. She’ll discuss dual diagnosis (DD), who it affects, how it affects them, and treatments—what works and what doesn’t.

The presentation will be held Friday, February 16, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

January 15, 2007
CBH Talk: Ways to Understand & Support the Autistic

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “What to Understand and Ways to Support an Individual with Autism: The First Pieces of the Puzzle,” featuring Kim Davis M.S. Davis will offer information about the challenges faced by individuals with Autism; ways to simply assess situations that challenge individuals with Autism; and knowledge about strategies that may offer support to people with Autism.

The presentation will be held Friday, January 19, 2007, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

December 22, 2006
Boxcar Books Plans CBH Art Exhibit

Boxcar Books, 310-A South Washington St. in Bloomington, is happy to announce an upcoming art exhibit at their location. On Friday, January 5th, 2007, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Boxcar books will host a reception to kick off a month-long exhibit of featured paintings from artists of the Horizons Art Therapy Program at Center for Behavioral Health. Refreshments will be provided at the free event.
The exhibit originally debuted at the Buskirk Chumley Theatre on December 2nd to an appreciative crowd as part of the “Art of Mental Health,” and Boxcar Books is happy to provide space for patrons to enjoy it at length during the month of January. Artists of these works use their art as a tool in treatment for coping, creativity, leisure, and building friendships.

For more information, contact Steven Slothard (steven@boxcarbooks.org) or Boxcar Books at 812-339-8710.

December 11, 2006
CBH Talk on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Dialectical Behavioral Therapy,” featuring Lissa Davis M.A. Davis will discuss Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)—a form of therapy designed for treating Borderline Personality Disorder that is increasingly applied to other disorders. The presentation will introduce DBT by describing the need for such a treatment, its major characteristics, and empirical support for its use.

The presentation will be held Friday, December 15, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

For more information, contact Cathi Norton (812-355-6387; cnorton@the-center.org) or check the CBH web site at: www.the-center.org.

November 9, 2006
CBH Talk on Meth Treatment Challenges

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Challenges in Methamphetamine Treatment,” featuring Brenda Oldstrom, M.A., L.M.H.C., and Lezlee Dodgion, M.S.W., L.C.S.W. Oldstrom and Dodgion will discuss the chemical properties of methamphetamine, the differences between it and other stimulants, recent law enforcement trends, assessment of dependence, meth-induced psychosis, depression, mania and anxiety, and the Matrix Model Intensive Outpatient Program used to treat addiction.

The presentation will be held Friday, November 17, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

October 30, 2006
Speakers Thankful for CBH

Police Detective Sgt. Volitta Fritsche and Poston Road Elementary School Principal Betty Collinsworth, addressed warm remarks to attendees at Center for Behavioral Health’s (CBH) Martinsville Open House on Thursday, October 26th and gave examples of how CBH employees and its behavioral health programs benefited their organizations and the community. The event, in celebration of the remodeling and expansion of the Center’s Martinsville clinic, was generously attended by representatives of the Department of Child Services, CASA, Probation, Morgan Hospital, the Sheriff’s Department, and Martinsville Schools among others. Center for Behavioral Health’s CEO, Dr. Dennis Morrison, offered welcoming remarks and spoke to the continuing need, and CBH's commitment, to build community relationships and services in Martinsville and Morgan County.

October 13, 2006
CBH Open House Invitation

Center for Behavioral Health’s (CBH) would like to issue an invitation to an Open House to celebrate the remodeling and expansion of our Martinsville clinic. The gathering will be held on Thursday, October 26, 2006, from 3:00-6:00p.m. at 1175 Southview Dr. in Martinsville. Refreshments will be offered as well as brief remarks by Center for Behavioral Health’s CEO, Dr. Dennis Morrison, Detective Sgt. Volitta Fritsche, and Poston Rd. Elementary Principal, Betty Collinsworth. RSVPs are requested. For more information, contact Angela Wood at (765) 342-6616 (awood@the-center.org).

October 5, 2006
CBH Employment Program Highly Ranked

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to announce that its “Harvest Employment Service”—a program to help our mentally challenged citizens obtain and retain employment—is again as one of the most successful in the nation, according to a Mental Health Corporations of America (MHCA) survey. Each year MHCA issues the National Database Status Report to review the previous year’s data gathered from participating Mental Health Centers throughout the U.S. Included in this report are Best Practices for client, referral, and staff satisfaction. In the 2005 best practices report for client satisfaction, Bloomington’s Center for Behavioral Health’s (CBH) Vocational program—Harvest Employment—attained the ranking of second in the nation.

October 2, 2006
Reception Features CBH Client Art

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to invite the general public to an Art Reception on Saturday, September 30, 2006. The event is to be held at 1516 Hillcrest Road in Bedford from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Art created by CBH clients will be featured and light refreshments provided. The Center’s year-’round art program yields an impressive array of artwork. Last year’s Lawrence County Art Calendar was well-received in the community and sales contributed to supplies for further client art groups. This year eight paintings, chosen by audience ballots, will be put on notecards, to be offered for sale—again to support CBH in purchasing art class supplies.

No reservations or entry fees are required to attend. All are welcome. For more information, contact 812-279-359

September 27, 2006
Riebow Attains Licensure

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is pleased to announce that Corinne Riebow, therapist, has recently attained LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) certification with the State of Indiana. Corinne works with “Open Arms” in Switz City where she offers mental health services for children and adolescents and also provides group services for the Turning Point Education Center Junior High School program. Prior to joining the CBH staff in September of 2005, Corinne worked as a school- and prevention-counselor in the Detroit, Michigan area.

September 12, 2005
Domestic Violence’s Effect on Children Talk

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children,” featuring Jessica Hersch, LCSW, LMFT, and Amy Holzworth-Munroe, Ph.D.

The presentation will be held Friday, September 22, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Hersch and Holzworth-Munroe will provide an overview of research on the effects of violence between intimate partners on the children in those violent homes, and consider theories of why violence has a negative impact on children. They will also offer a brief overview of intervention programs for children and parents.

August 8, 2006
Lenard Award Recipient

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce the winner of the third annual Veronica Lenard Award, which recognizes outstanding behavioral healthcare by a CBH staff member. Candidates are nominated by CBH employees, clients, or community members as noteworthy for their creativity, social advocacy and responsiveness to client needs. A selection is then made by a panel of peers. This year’s winner is David Carrico, LCSW, Clinical Director. David has worked for the Center for Behavioral Health for 27 years. His name will be added to a commemorative plaque and he’ll receive an honorarium of $1,000.

Mark Hickman, Manager of Morgan County Services, nominated Carrico, citing his unwavering commitment as coordinator of what is now the most comprehensive residential and treatment continuum for adults with severe mental disorders in the State. “From grant proposals to community education, David has represented the needs of our clients in ways that connected people in need with vital resources...he initiated, and continues to direct, our tradition of creative solutions for addressing the expansive needs of our most vulnerable clients.”

June 5, 2006
Panel on Mental Health and Ethics

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Mental Health: Funding, Families and Ethics,” featuring CEO, Dennis Morrison, Ph.D., Jim Jones, M.S., Executive Director, the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers; and Katy Howard, Deputy Director, Revenue Enhancement, Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction.

The presentation will be held Friday, June 16th, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Howard will address state and national mental health initiatives, what the Office of the Inspector General has in mind regarding funding reductions, and what this information means to mental health centers. about how financial changes may affect them; and Morrison will offer information about how the money flow directly affects the ways families and communities get services, as well as the ethical dilemma in who and how we treat families due to funding restrictions.

May 1, 2006
Article on Hidden Costs of Electronic Health Records

Center for Behavioral Health’s (CBH) CEO, Dennis Morrison, Ph.D. recently published an article, “Before an EHR, You Must Endure a ‘Paper Cut’,” in the national magazine, Behavioral Healthcare (March 2006, Vol. 26, No. 3). The article describes the added/unheralded difficulty of installing an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system in a healthcare facility—knowledge gained by CBH when they moved to an all-EHR system. Morrison concluded from that experience that the hardware/software transition has expected difficulties, but unexpected was the necessary “cultural change.” Specifically, changing from paper to electronic records is about three organizational changes: technologic, clinical, and cultural (changing people’s hearts and minds to move from one system to the other).

April 12, 2006
ADHD Across the Lifespan

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Attention-deficit, Hyperactivity Disorder Across the Lifespan,” featuring Bethany Murray, APRN, BC. The presentation will be held Friday, April 21st, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Murray will review the symptoms of ADHD; describe how symptoms may change over time; differentiate the various medication treatments for ADHD; and offer understanding of the rationale(s) behind medication choices.

March 30, 2006
CBH Art Gallery Showing

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is pleased to announce a free art exhibit, at the Sweet Hickory Gallery (317 E. Third St—Bloomington) that will feature art work by CBH “Horizons” PHP (Partial Hospitalization) Program clients. The exhibit will open at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 1st, and the artwork will remain on display throughout the month of April.

The CBH Horizons Program works with serious and persistently mentally ill clients and helps train these individuals in social and life skills that increase their independence, help integrate them into general society, empower them, and reduce the stigma commonly felt by persons with mental challenges. Sweet Hickory Gallery is an art space offering sales of local arts, crafts and music that recently opened in downtown Bloomington.

March 14, 2006
Understanding Complicated Grief

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Understanding Complicated Grief,” featuring Cindy Molthan, LSW, Bereavement Coordinator of Bloomington Hospital Home Health and Hospice. The presentation will be held Friday, March 24, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). It’s open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Molthan will review the basic understandings of grief and loss, identify problems in grieving, offer warning signals of complicated grief, and discuss ways to assist individuals through their grieving processes.

March 10, 2006
CBH Employment Program Nationally Recognized

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to announce that its “Harvest Employment Service”—a program to help mentally challenged citizens obtain and retain employment, is statistically ranked one of the top two such programs in the State of Indiana, and declared the number one program in the U.S.A. with regard to customer satisfaction. CBH’s Harvest Employment Services participates along with 29 other supportive employment services across the State in continued longitudinal study directed by Dr. David V. Perkins (Ball State University). The study compiles statistics to share best practices on the number of mental health clients who complete training and are successfully placed in the community workforce. This is the fourth year in a row that CBH’s Harvest Employment Services has garnered these distinctions.

March 9, 2006
CBH Welcomes Sarkissian

The Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce that Dr. Armen Sarkissian, EdD, HSPP (Psychologist and Compliance Office at CBH) now offers services to the CBH Owen County Clinic in Spencer. Sarkissian received his master's and doctoral degrees from Indiana University. He is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Counseling & Educational Psychology, at Indiana University, Bloomington.

A licensed Health Service Provider in Psychology in the states of Indiana and California he has worked in most areas of behavioral health care, including inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization programs, emergency services, forensics, consultation and management. He will be providing diagnosis and treatment of adult and adolescent behavioral disorders at the Owen County CBH on Monday afternoons and is a panel member of most insurance programs including Anthem, Sagamore, Medicare, United Behavioral Health, Encore, CIGNA, MHN, United Healthcare and others.

February 8, 2006
CENTER’S CEO SERVES ON NATIONAL BOARD

Dennis P. Morrison, Ph.D., CEO of Center for Behavioral Health in Bloomington, Indiana, has been elected Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of MHCA, the Mental Health Corporations of America, Inc. Morrison will take office on February 24th at the national organization’s 2006 business meeting in St. Petersburg, Florida.

MHCA is an alliance of select behavioral health organizations, designed to strengthen members’ competitive positions, enhance their leadership capabilities and facilitate their strategic networking opportunities. Through its commitment to leadership and service excellence MHCA ensures stable services of the highest quality for their members’ customers and their communities. Established in 1984, MHCA is represented now by 143 behavioral corporations in 33 states.

Morrison has been a member of MHCA since 1996 and served on the organization’s Executive Committee for several years prior to his election as Vice-Chairman. He also chaired MHCA’s Information and Technology Committee and is currently Chairman of MHCA’s subsidiary corporation, Mental Healthcare America, Inc.

February 7, 2006
CBH Program on Post-partum Depression

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce February’s presentation in the free, monthly, Breakfast Learning Series: “Post-partum Depression: An Update.” To be held Friday, February 17, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington), the presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

This month we’ll feature three presenters: Elizabeth McDaniel, CNM, BSME, BSN, MSN will address types of Post-partum Depression, assessment, diagnosis and treatment, and anticipatory guidance for new mothers. Georg’ann Cattelona, Ph.D., will offer a collection of local resources and education opportunities; and Birdie Gunyan Meyer, RN, MA, CWG, will widen the scope with a discussion of state/national programs, online resources, and conference opportunities. A question and answer period with PPMD survivors will follow.

January 5, 2006
CBH Program on “Mindfulness”

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce January’s presentation in the free, monthly, Breakfast Learning Series, “Mindfulness: Clinical Applications with Adults & Child Populations,” featuring Lissa Davis, M.A. To be held Friday, January 20, 2006, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington), the presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

Davis will discuss mindfulness—a popular Western-style version of typically “Eastern” meditation styles. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment, using the five senses, and is designed to foster increased insight into the role one’s thoughts play in life experiences. Davis will present examples of how mindfulness is currently used in different types of psychotherapy; include examples of practice experiences; and offer resources for those with further interest.

December 15, 2005
ART CALENDARS FROM CBH

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce the publication of 2006 Client Art Calendars for both the Bloomington and Bedford clinics. Clients Art Therapy Programs at both clinic sites created paintings throughout 2005 and at year’s end 12 pictures were selected. The winning art was then incorporated into 2006 calendars—now offered for sale to the public for $5 apiece. Proceeds will be used for art supplies and equipment for client programs at both clinics. Interested persons may contact Steve Lewis in Bloomington (812-339-8109), or Diana Hastings in Bedford (812-279-3591).

December 8, 2005
Workshop on Anger Assessment & Violence Prevention

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce this month’s free Breakfast Learning Series, “Anger Assessment and Violence Prevention,” featuring Matthew Oliver, Ph.D. To be held Friday, December 16, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington), the presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

Oliver will address the impact aggression has on communities, families and individuals; describe different profiles of aggression and strategies for managing high-risk situations; and offer helpful assessment considerations needed for appropriate healthcare treatment planning

November 14, 2005
Talk on Pain Medications—Use and Misuse

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce this month’s free Breakfast Learning Series, “Pain Medication: Use & Misuse,” featuring Michael Nagy, M.D., and Cindy Houston, LCSW, WMHC, LMFT, MAC. To be held Friday, November 18, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington), the presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.
Dr. Nagy will discuss pain pathways, different treatment plans and medications; and the difference between addiction and dependence. Cindy Houston will address the challenges facing opiate addicts, the challenges of working with them, helpful tools, and the use of opiate replacements during treatment. A question and answer session will follow.

October 10, 2005
CBH Panel on Poverty & Mental Health

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce this month’s free Breakfast Learning Series, a panel on “Poverty’s Effect on Mental Health.” The panel is to be held Friday, October 21, 2005 , 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church ( 2120 N. Fee Lane — Bloomington ). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

Panelists will include Lynn Reed, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools ( Brown County ), Sabrina Sullenberger, MSW, Ph.D., Professor of Social Work ( Indiana University ), and Betty Walton, ACSW, LCSW (Indiana Family and Social Service Administration, Division of Mental Health and Addictions). Reed will talk about poverty in the learning environment—what teachers and school staff need to understand. Sullenberger will address differences in urban/rural poverty, the effects of poverty on family functions and individual development, and poverty’s demographics and current trends. Walton, ACSW, LCSW, will focus on poverty as a risk factor, access to treatment/support for children living below the poverty line, and the relationship between adults with severe mental illness and poverty.

October 10, 2005
Art Reception Features CBH Client Works

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to invite the general public to an Art Reception on Saturday, October 22, 2005 . The event is to be held at 1516 Hillcrest Road in Bedford from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Art created by CBH clients will be featured and light refreshments provided. The Center’s year-’round art program yields an impressive array of artwork. Last winter’s successful Lawrence County Art Calendar, based on client paintings, established the program and its participants as an artistic force in the community. This year clients will also offer poetry readings on the half hour to augment the viewing.

September 15, 2005
CBH Presentation on Disaster Relief

Center for Behvaioral Health is pleased to announce this month's free Breakfast Learning Series: "Disaster Mental Health Service--the Red Cross Model of Psychological First Aid," featuring Bethany Murray, APRN, BC, to be held Friday, September 23, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane-Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Murray will discuss the components of "psychological first aid" - how best to help. She will address the main issues she encountered there: acute stress reactions, managing chronically mentally ill individuals, drug and alcohol with drawal, and staff stress. She'll also mention issues specific to children, and entertain questions. All are invited to attend.

September 8, 2005
RED CROSS & CBH OFFER COPING ADVICE

Center for Behavioral Health in collaboration with the American Red Cross – Monroe County Chapter, would like to offer information relating to coping with the recent disaster caused by hurricane Katrina. In the aftermath of that event, people may find themselves distressed and overwhelmed by the graphic images that they see on TV or news they hear on the radio. While people respond to traumatic events in different ways, many may have difficulty concentrating, feel shock and loss, or experience worry and hopelessness. Physical symptoms may include nausea, gastrointestinal problems, poor sleep, jumpiness, and irritability.

Suggestions for coping:

Remind yourself that upsetting feelings and thoughts are normal responses to natural disasters.
Spend time in calm environments around people with whom you feel safe.
Express your feelings: talk with others, journal, draw, etc.
Stay physically active.
Get adequate rest, eat well, and drink lots of water.
Limit exposure to media coverage of the disaster.
Maintain normal activities as much as possible.

Dealing with the responses of children can be challenging. However, you can emphasize that people are getting help and that there are supports available, although it may take time to get them there.

Some helpful ways to address the children are:

Talk with children in a calm, reassuring way and listen to their concerns. Validate their feelings. Encourage children to maintain typical daily routines.
Empower them by creating a way they can help: e.g., work for money to donate, write a letter to a child affected by the disaster, etc.

More information on how to cope with traumatic media exposure can be found by contacting a mental health professional or through the local Red Cross:

Monroe County Chapter of American Red Cross
411 East Seventh St., Bloomington, IN 47408
812-332-7291
(www.monroe-redcross.org)

Center for Behavioral Health
645 S. Rogers St., Bloomington, IN 47403
812-339-1691
(www.the-center.org)

September 8, 2005
Panel on Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) of Owen County will host a panel on “Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence in our Community” on Tuesday, September 13, at Cornerstone Hall (163 N. Washington Street-Spencer), from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 4:00 p.m.; the free event requires no reservations; light
refreshments will be provided; and the public is invited to participate in a question-and-answer session following panelist presentations.

Participants include Steven R. King, Director of the Drug & Crime Control Division of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and Coordinator of “Meth Free Indiana,” who will discuss the state of the methamphetamine epidemic in Indiana, specifically in Owen and adjoining counties; Cindy Houston, ME.D., LCSW, LMHC, LMST, a CBH clinician, will offer an overview of substance abuse; Kathy Talkington, Owen County Advocate for Women with Middle Way House, will address domestic violence; and Donna Nicholas, MSW, LCSW, Manager of the Owen County Center for Behavioral Health, will moderate the panel and offer observations about the effects substance abuse and domestic violence have on mental health.

September 8, 2005
CBH Clinician Coordinates Services at Baton Rouge Shelter

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH)’s Nursing Manager, Bethany Murray, APRN, BC, has sent us word of her volunteer efforts to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina in Baton Rouge.At the River Center Entertainment Complex—a Red Cross Shelter for evacuees, she is the on-site, coordinator/manager of mental health services for over 6,000 people. She works 12-14 hour-long shifts there with eight therapists by day and four by night, and states that the biggest problem right now is communication and medical transportation.

A previous volunteer in the 9/11 disaster, Murray serves on an Emergency Response team for the Red Cross and, with the loving support of her family and community is most often on the front lines when a need arises. Interviewed this week by CNN’s Soledad O’Brien, Murray admitted that a great percentage of southern evacuees will need counseling, but their strong family ties make a big difference. “What we’ve noticed about the Louisiana area is that families are very strong here...The more support somebody has, the less likely they are to need professional assistance.” Murray hopes to return to CBH sometime this month to a community proud of her selfless service.

August 29, 2005
CBH Clients Offered Free Wellness Check

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) offers a “Balance Your Wellness” check to the first 100 CBH clients who appear for it on Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at its main center (645 S. Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN). The examinations will be from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and will include examinations and tests for: blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, weight and height, and a discussion of the results with a doctor.

August 25, 2005
CBH Assists Gosport County State Bank

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) of Owen County recently stepped up to help out when the Owen County State Bank in Gosport, Indiana
was robbed in late July. CBH Owen County Manager, Donna Nicholas, LCSW, met with employees to provide counseling as needed. “I was there to support them and provide information to normalize the experience as best I could. I then gave them information as to what they might expect in terms of reactions and invited them to talk further with their doctors, ministers, or mental health professionals if they felt their reactions or symptoms began to affect their regular functioning.”

Ruth A Jones, Vice President of Human Resources for the Bank, expressed appreciation for the community service. “Our employees received great benefit from this session and we would like to expression our appreciation to you and your organization for this service.”

July 19, 2005
Lenard Award Recipient

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce the winner of the second annual Veronica Lenard Award, which recognizes outstanding behavioral healthcare by a CBH staff member. Candidates are nominated by CBH employees, clients, or community members as noteworthy for their creativity, social advocacy and responsiveness to client needs. A selection is then made by a panel of peers. This year’s winner is Denise Jackson, Case Manager for the Community Support Services Dept. Denise has worked for the Center for Behavioral Health for 30 years. Her name will be added to a commemorative plaque and she’ll receive an honorarium of $1,000.

Jackson’s supervisor, Greg Clark, nominated her noting, “Ms. Jackson is highly regarded throughout the community. She has always been willing to accept and succeed with the most challenging of cases. Her professionalism and dedication have improved the quality of life for many staff and consumers and her efforts have been a key factor in the success of the organization.”The Lenard Award was established to honor E. Veronica Lenard who for 29 years served clients at CBH with dignity and respect. A tireless advocate for social needs and mental health, Lenard was creative in her treatment approaches, and sensitive to the devastating effect poverty has on those with behavioral health needs.

July 6, 2005
Presentation on Psychodynamic Therapy

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “A Review of Psychodynamic Therapy,” featuring Sydney Anderson, Ph.D., to be held Friday, July 22, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Anderson will provide a review of the basic principles differentiating psychodynamic treatment from other forms of intervention. She will also address the role of the unconscious; defenses and resistances; transference and counter-transference; conflict; development; and repetition compulsion.

June 6, 2005
Presentation Impulse Control Disorders

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Impulse Control Disorders,” featuring Gregory Sidell, M.D., to be held Friday, June 17, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington)./SPAN>The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Sidell will review the signs, symptoms, possible causes, and treatment options for a variety of impulse control disorders, such as hair-pulling, pyromania, kleptomania, pathological gambling, etc. Discussion will also include diagnosis techniques and accompanying health problems of these conditions.

May 4, 2005
CBH Art Reception

To celebrate May as Mental Health Month, Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to invite the general public to an Art Reception on Saturday, May 21, 2005. The event is to be held at 1516 Hillcrest Road in Bedford from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Art created by CBH clients will be featured and refreshments provided. The Center's year-'round art program yields an impressive array of artwork. Last winter's successful Lawrence County Art Calendar, based on client paintings, established the program and its participants as an artistic force in the community.

May 4, 2005
CBH & Dunn Memorial Partner in Lecture Series

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) and Dunn Memorial Hospital 's Behavioral Health Unit are happy to invite the general public to the first of a collaborative educational series, “Listen & Learn,” (L&L), sponsored by both organizations. The first in the quarterly series, “Pain Medication: Use and Misuse,” with Michael Nagy, M.D., is scheduled for Thursday, May 12, 2005 (in the Ambulance Education Room of the old J.C. Plaza on Mitchell Road), from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The luncheon presentation is free; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Dr. Nagy will offer definitions of the varying types of pain medications; describe medicines that might be of addiction concern; and discuss pain and pain syndromes. All are welcome to attend.

The L&L workshop is the first in an exciting new educational series and partnership between Lawrence County's Center for Behavioral Health, and Dunn Memorial Hospital. Dunn Memorial's Director of Behavioral Health Unit, Sheila Wright is pleased at working with CBH, “We're reaching out together to help the community learn about mental health.” Diana Hastings, Bedford's CBH Clinic Manager, agrees, “We're excited to share resources in our efforts to serve our community's mental health needs.”

May 4, 2005
Presentation on Eating Disorders

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Eating Disorders: Assessment and Beginning Treatment,” featuring Anne Price, M.S., Ed.S., to be held Friday, May 20, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Price will offer an overview of the history of eating disorders as well as diagnosis and assessment of anorexia, bulimia, and eating disorder nos (overeating). Basic treatment strategies for these conditions, helpful medications and safety guidelines will also be reviewed.

April 7, 2005
Motivating Behavioral Change

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Motivating Behavioral Change,” featuring Cindy Houston, ME.d., L.C.S.W., L.M.H.C., L.M.S.T., to be held Friday, April 22, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Utilizing the framework of motivational interviewing, Houston will present evidence-based practices that have been found to be effective in helping people make behavioral changes.

March 16, 2005
Adult Bipolar Disorder Presentation

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Adult Bipolar Disorder,” featuring Jerry Neff, M.D., to be held Friday, March 25, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a serious disorder that causes dramatic shifts in a person's mood, energy, behavior, and ability to function. Dr. Neff will focus his presentation on evidence-based practices for managing Bipolar Disorder, and offer information to help encourage a recovery-based approach to its management in adults.

February 9, 2005
Dual Diagnosis Therapy Workshop

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Psychotherapy for Persons with Mental Retardation: Seeing the Forest and the Trees,” featuring Matthew Oliver, M.A., and M.B.A., to be held Friday, February 18, 2005, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Oliver will address why psychotherapy is a reasonable treatment option for individuals with both mental retardation and mental illness; offer basic therapy modifications to accommodate them; and provide an assessment model for behavioral consultation.

January 28, 2005
CBH Awarded HUD Grant

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce it has been awarded $113,904 for the operation of Martinsville Plaza – a CBH residential facility in Martinsville , Indiana , that provides permanent housing for homeless persons with chronic mental health disabilities. The funds were awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)'s annual Continuum of Care competition. The Continuum of Care is a long-term strategy that identifies gaps in services to homeless persons, and proposes strategies to fill those gaps.

January 19, 2005
CBH Awarded ACT Grant

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce it has been awarded a $240,500 Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) grant from the Indiana State Division of Mental Health. The grant will defray the expense of starting up a multi-disciplinary ACT Team of professionals to provide 24-hour, case management services to seriously mentally ill clients. Services will be tailored to meet individual clients' specific needs, with an end goal of increasing quality of life and preventing hospitalization. Research has shown that the ACT Team protocol improves client outcomes by providing comprehensive and flexible treatment, support, and rehabilitation services to individuals in their natural settings (avoiding hospitalization) and is supported by many mental health advocacy groups like NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill).

January 5, 2005
BLS Topic: Engaging Substance Abusing moms: Screening & Prevention for At-Risk Women

Center for Behavioral Health announces the January edition of the free, monthly Breakfast Learning Series. "Engaging Substance Abusing Moms: Screening & Prevention for At-Risk Women" will be the topic of the presentation with featured speakers: Linda Grove Paul, M.S.W., and Carrie Foley, M.S.W. The workshop will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane in Bloomington) from 8-9:30 a.m. on Friday, January 21st. Breakfast is provided; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits (category one) are available upon request. Grove-Paul and Foley hope to assist professionals in identifying high risk, chemically dependent pregnant women, provide addiction education, and facilitate training and education for professionals and paraprofessionals who do not provide substance abuse treatment but work with women of child-bearing age

November 30, 2004
Antidepressants, Adolescents & Suicide

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Antidepressants, Adolescents & Suicide,” featuring Melody Gongwer, M.D., to be held Friday, December 17, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Gongwer will give a general overview of suicidal behaviors and antidepressant use in adolescents, as well as discuss how to monitor for complications of antidepressant use and assess suicide risk.

November 30, 2004
Grant Awarded

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $64,340 grant from the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) to support their work with the FSSA's "Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness" (PATH), which helps clients find health care, job training, housing, education, substance abuse services, and other support services in residential settings. "The goal of Indiana's PATH program is to reach out to people with mental illness or addiction who are homeless, link them with services that break the cycle of homelessness, and help them become more self-sufficient," said Suzanne Clifford, Director of FSSA's Division of Mental Health and Addiction.

November 10, 2004
Technology and Healthcare Presentation

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Technology and Clinical Practice,” featuring CEO, Dennis Morrison, Ph.D., and Eric Kinser, M.S., on Friday, November 19, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. in the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). Morrison and Kinser will discuss the use and potential value of technology including electronic clinical record; web resources as a tool for health practitioners and consumers; and the potential of electronic therapy, instant messaging, and telemedicine. The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request.

October 19, 2004
Court Training for Mental Health Providers

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a workshop for mental health providers, “Preparing Mental Health Service Providers for Court,” to be conducted by C. Jessica Hersch, A.C.S.W., L.C.S.W., L.M.F.T., Assistant Manager of Child & Adolescent Services, and Stephen Galvin. J.D., candidate for Monroe County judge.

The two hour presentation, to be held Thursday, October 28 th, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. in the CBH Community Room (645 S. Rogers St., Bloomington, IN), will offer participants an understanding of how basic legal issues impact note-taking, treatment, and preparation for court. Participants will also learn how to gain clarity of their role in a case, how to be a qualified witness, how to testify as a fact and/or expert witness, and how to work with attorneys.

October 12, 2004
Workshop on Personality Disorders

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Personality Disorders: Diagnostic and Treatment Issues,” featuring Michael Nagy, M.D., to be held Friday, October 22, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Nagy will focus on the symptoms, treatment considerations, and the fundamental principles used to guide medication options for an array of personality disorders.

September 17, 2004
Talk on Costs of Substance & Alcohol Abuse to Business

As part of National Recovery Month, the Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) will present “Costs of Substance & Alcohol Abuse to Business,” on Wednesday, September 29 th , 2004 . The free program, presented in the Monroe County Public Library Auditorium at 4:30 p.m. , features Center for Behavioral Health's CEO, Dr. Dennis Morrison as speaker, and all are invited to attend.

Morrison is a psychologist with treatment experience and Chief Executive Officer of CBH—a $20M Business with over 300 employees.

September 15, 2004
Recovery Month Display at City Hall

As part of National Recovery Month, the Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) invites the general public to visit a display at the City Hall—Showers Building on Morton Street in Bloomington . A glass case in the building's foyer features an exhibit of famous people and their contributions to society, despite personal challenges of substance and alcohol abuse, mental illness, disease, and stigma. CBH honors people who struggle with these issues and offers this display in celebration of all who struggle now, or in the past, to live a better life.

August 31, 2004
Bipolar Disorder Discussed

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Early Onset of Bipolar Disorder,” featuring Deb Mishler, M.S.W., to be held Friday, September 24, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Mishler will discuss current research, the characteristics of the disorder, difference in symptoms between adults and children, co-existing disorders, and treatment.

July 19, 2004
Lenard Award Recipient

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is delighted to announce the winner of the first annual Veronica Lenard Award, which recognizes outstanding behavioral healthcare by a CBH staff member. Candidates are nominated by CBH employees, clients, or community members as noteworthy for their creativity, social advocacy and responsiveness to client needs. A selection is then made by a panel of peers. This year’s winner is Deb Mishler, M.S.W. She will receive a commemmorative plaque and an honorarium of $1,000.

Mishler, notes nominating colleague Melissa Wickens, is deserving for her “effectiveness as an advocate, her strengths-based approach which successfully guides clients while encouraging their independence, her constant willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty, her collaboration with colleagues and other providers, her development of new programs and groups in response to community needs, and her active role in the Monroe County Prevent Child Abuse organization.”

July 7, 2004
Talk on Chronic Pain

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Psychological Approaches to Chronic Pain,” with featured speaker, Cami Lokken, Ph.D., to be held Friday, July 23, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Lokken will discuss common issues faced by people with chronic pain, and present psychological and behavioral interventions that are available to help them.

June 3, 2004
Coping with Life-Threatening Illnesses

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the latest in the free monthly Breakfast Learning Series: “Families Coping with Life-Threatening Illnesses,” with featured speaker, Michelle Katz, M.A., to be held Friday, June 18, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). The presentation is open to the public; no reservations are necessary; and continuing education credits will be available upon request. Katz will discuss how to understand chronic and terminal illness and how it affects children, families, and couples. She will also identify strategies for coping and maintaining one’s quality of life while adjusting to the demands for coping and maintaining one’s quality of life during such illnesses.

April 13, 2004
Workshop on Conduct Disorder in Adolescents

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a presentation on “Conduct Disorder in Adolescents,” to be held Friday, April 23, 2004 , 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church ( 2120 N. Fee Lane — Bloomington ). This free presentation is part of Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learning Series and is open to the public. Presenter Pamela Reed, M.S., L.M.H.C., will discuss treatments that have been found to be useful in dealing with adolescents who engage in acting out behaviors.

January 30, 2004
Martinsville CBH Awarded for Service

Center for Behavioral Health is delighted to announce that our Martinsville clinic has been recognized by the Stanley H. Byram Trust for work done to prevent domestic violence and child abuse. A check for $1,000 accompanied the award to be used for educational and treatment purposes in support of that cause.

Joseph O. Gaafar, Senior Vice President and Trust Officer at the National City Bank—Indianapolis, explained the Byram Trust Committee's decision: “The advisors felt that the Center was doing very worthwhile work with child abuse prevention and wanted to reward them for it, as well as promote the continuation of that work.”

The Stanley H. Byram Trust is a charitable trust established in the mid-eighties upon the death of Mr. Byram, a Martinsville philanthropist, to care for animals, support education and religion, and prevent domestic abuse of children.

January 19, 2004
Talk on Teaching Diversity: Promoting Dialogue

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a seminar on “Teaching Diversity: Promoting Dialogue,” to be held Friday, February 20, 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). This free presentation is part of Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learning Series and is open to the public. Speakers Gladys DeVane, Ph.D., and Shana Ritter, B.A., will discuss diversity over the years, myths and assumptions about it, and what works to promote dialogue.

No reservations are necessary; breakfast is provided; and continuing education credits are available upon request.

January 9, 2004
Community Partners Aid Youth Services Bureau

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH), the Youth Services Bureau (YSB), and the Monroe County Commissioners are pleased to announce a plan to maintain services provided by the YSB. Following the loss of a $127,535 federal grant that constituted 20% of the YSB's operating budget, additional funding was sought to replace the lost revenue. The Monroe County Commissioners and the County Council were able to provide temporary assistance through January 2004. During that time, Center for Behavioral Health stepped forward to help by offering to hire the potentially displaced counselors, and train them so that they can bill Medicaid for YSB therapeutic services; thus establishing a funding source allowing YSB to maintain it's the same level of services as prior to the loss of its federal grant.

The Monroe County Commissioners today voted to accept the contract with CBH, and the Center's CEO, Dennis Morrison, lauded the resolution, “ This is an excellent example of a public-private partnership working for the betterment of our community. We are very pleased with the opportunity to work with the Youth Services Bureau.”

Ron Thompson, Director of the YSB, agreed. “This is a win-win solution. We get to retain our excellent counseling staff intact, providing the same level of services as before; and we have found a sustainable solution to the loss of funding.”

January 6, 2004
Talk on Suicide and Crisis Intervention

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a seminar on “Suicide and Crisis Intervention,” to be held Friday, January 23 rd , 2004, 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). This free presentation is part of Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learning Series. Speaker Eric Kinser, M.S., will discuss the risk factors and warning signs of a person in crisis or at risk for suicide. Participants will learn about various crisis intervention techniques and resources available locally for seeking help with persons in crisis.

No reservations are necessary; breakfast is provided; and continuing education credits are available upon request. For more information, contact Cathi Norton (812) 330-2887; cnorton@the-center.org or check the CBH web site at: www.the-center.org.

December 3, 2003
Seminar on Psychological Testing

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a seminar on “Strengths and Weaknesses of Psychological Tests,” to be held Friday, December 12 th , 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church ( 2120 N. Fee Lane — Bloomington ). This free presentation is part of Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learning Series. Speaker Armen Sarkissian, Ed.D., H.S.P.P., will discuss the different types of psychological and educational tests and their various attributes. Participants will also hear how such tests are used and misused.

No reservations are necessary; breakfast is provided; and continuing education credits are available upon request. For more information, contact Cathi Norton (812) 330-2887; cnorton@the-center.org .

November 4, 2003
Talk on Stress Management

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a seminar on “Stress Management,” to be held Friday, November 14 th , 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). This free presentation is part of Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learning Series. Speaker Julie Matthews, M.A., L.M.H.C., will discuss stress management skills—realistic thinking, relaxation, time management, problem-solving, assertiveness—ways to manage stress since we cannot alleviate it completely. In today's world it's not the stress that kills you, it's how you manage it.

No reservations are necessary; breakfast is provided; and continuing education credits are available upon request.

October 21, 2003
Center For Behavioral Health Board Meeting Schedule

Notice is given that at 5:30 p.m. on the dates specified below, the Board of Directors for Center for Behavioral Health will hold regular meetings to consider and take action on such items as may be brought before it and in accordance with the agenda for said meetings. The meetings will be held at the main CBH location— 645 S. Rogers St. , Bloomington , Indiana , unless otherwise announced. A meeting agenda will be available in advance of each meeting.

November 24, 2003

December 2003 – no meeting due to holidays

January 26, 2004

February 23, 2004

March 22, 2004

April 26, 2004

May 24, 2004

June 28, 2004

October 21, 2003
Open House at Center for Behavioral Health

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to invite the general public to an Open House, Monday, October 27, 2003, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at its new facility: 1315 Hillcrest Rd.—Bedford. The occasion marks the opening of a new 8,000-square-foot building that will allow CBH to expand services in a continuing effort to provide quality behavioral healthcare. Mayor John Williams will offer brief remarks, as will Clinic Director, Diana Hastings, and Dr. Dennis Morrison, Center for Behavioral Health's CEO. Refreshments and clinic tours will be available throughout the event and community members are welcome.

The new CBH building could not have been constructed without the support of Mayor Williams, the City of Bedford, and a Community Focus Grant ($495,000) awarded by Lt. Governor Joe Kernan to the city of Bedford to aid in the construction of the new behavioral health facility. The Community Focus Fund is a federally funded grant program administered by the State's Department of Commerce—available to small cities, towns, and counties for construction projects designed to benefit low-to-moderate-income individuals or to eliminate blight. Grants are awarded through competitive funding rounds to assist small communities in long-term development projects. A match of at least 10 percent is required from the grant recipient. For more information about the CFF grant program, contact the Community Development Division of the Indiana Department of Commerce (317) 232-8911.

October 8, 2003
CBH Presents Talk on Attachment Disorder

As part of its monthly educational “Breakfast Learning Series,” Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce a presentation by Deb Mishler, MSW, on “Attachment Disorder.” Attachment Disorder describes children who cannot organize and regulate impulsive behaviors and emotions. This can lead to more severe emotional and behavioral problems as they grow. The presentation will be free, open to the public, and held at the Unitarian Universalist Church ( 2120 N. Fee Lane , Bloomington ) on October 17 th , from 8-9:30 a.m. No reservations are required; breakfast is provided and continuing education credits are available upon request.

September 8, 2003
Autism/Asperger's Syndrome Talk, Part II

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce the second part of a presentation on Autism/Asperger's Syndrome by Stein Levy, M.S., to be held Friday, Sept. 19 th , 8:00-9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church (2120 N. Fee Lane—Bloomington). Entitled “Autism/Asperger's Syndrome: How Parents and Teachers Can Help,” the presentation will offer a quick look at the autism spectrum and impairment, what such persons need to function optimally, and how parents and teachers can help meet these needs.

The free presentation is part of the Center for Behavioral Health's monthly Breakfast Learnings Series; no reservations are required. Breakfast is provided along with continuing education credits upon request. Space is limited and seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.

June 24, 2003
Morrison Represents US in International Mental Health Collaborative

Approximately one year ago Mental Health Corporations of America (MHCA) began the development of an exchange program for Chief Executives of mental health organizations in the United States and the United Kingdom to share mental health care ideas, resources, and best practices across international boundaries. Working with the National Institute for Mental Health England (NIMHE), and with the subsequent participation of the Ministry of Health New Zealand (MOHNZ), the MHCA formed the International Institute for Mental Health Leaders (IIMHL) and became the oversight entity for the new collaborative.
Dr. Dennis Morrison, CEO of Center for Behavioral Health—Bloomington, was selected as one of 18 MHCA representatives from the United States who traveled to England in May to do formative work for the development of the IIMHL. Together with 10 New Zealanders and 20 British CEOs, attendees spent time learning about each other’s health care systems. Of special interest to Morrison was the fact that efforts are now underway in all three countries towards the integration of primary and behavioral health care providers and the implementation of Evidence Based Practices. Such practices are already central to Center for Behavioral Health’s mission. “We heard from several excellent speakers, from each country, about the challenges and opportunities they are facing and I was impressed by our similarities and differences,” he commented. Morrison will continue to serve on the IIMHL’s Executive Committee as they work to establish a formal mission and vision statement for the fledgling organization.
For more information, contact Cathi Norton, (812) 330-2887.

June 11, 2003
Teaching Students About Racism

The Center for Behavioral Health offers a seminar on Friday, June 20, from
8-9:30 a.m. entitled, “White Privilege: Teaching Upper-Middle Class White Students About Racism,” featuring Zachary Woessner, M.A. Mr. Woessner will offer a definition of white privilege and its costs, individual, family, and community ideas on how to combat it, and a proposed method for teaching upper-middle class students about racism.
The workshop is a part of CBH’s free monthly Breakfast Learning Series at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 2120 N. Fee Lane, in Bloomington. Breakfast is provided; no reservations are necessary; and seminar attendees are eligible for 1.5 units of Continuing Education credit. For more information, please contact Cathi Norton, 330-2887 (e-mail: cnorton@the-center.org).

May 24, 2003
CBH Employment Program Ranked First in State

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to announce that its “Harvest Employment Service”—a program to help our mentally challenged citizens obtain and retain employment, has been statistically ranked number one in the State of Indiana. CBH's Harvest Employment Services program participates along with 26 other supportive employment services across the State in continued longitudinal study directed by Dr. David V. Perkins (Ball State University). The study compiles statistics to share best practices on the number of mental health clients who complete training and are successfully placed in the community workforce. This year's results show that 90 percent of CBH placements are successful completed with a job retention average of six months to two years.

May 24, 2003
Training Completed

Center for Behavioral Health is pleased to announce that its Director of Engineering Services, Loren Kimsey, has successfully completed the Safety Compliance Specialist Certification program, demonstrating his continued efforts toward voluntary compliance with the Indiana Occupational Safety & Health Association (IOSHA) and the Occupational Safety & Health Associations’ standards and regulations. His educational achievement and professional excellence will be recognized during the Indiana Chamber’s Annual Safety Awards presentation June 4th at the Indianapolis Hyatt Regency.

May 24, 2003
CBH Employment Program Ranked First in State

Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is happy to announce that its “Harvest Employment Service”—a program to help our mentally challenged citizens obtain and retain employment, has been statistically ranked number one in the State of Indiana. CBH’s Harvest Employment Services program participates along with 26 other supportive employment services across the State in continued longitudinal study directed by Dr. David V. Perkins (Ball State University). The study compiles statistics to share best practices on the number of mental health clients who complete training and are successfully placed in the community workforce. This year’s results show that 90 percent of CBH placements are successful completed with a job retention average of six months to two years.
For more information, contact Cathi Norton, (812) 330-2887.

April 9, 2003
The Culturally Competent Practice

The Center for Behavioral Health offers a seminar on Friday, April 18, from
8-9:30 a.m. entitled, “The Culturally Competent Practice,” featuring Clare Rountree, M.A. as presenter. Ms. Rountree will discuss past and present research on the issues of providing mental healthcare to diverse cultures of people. Her experiences serving American Indians on the Navajo Reservation will provide a case study to explore methods to develop and measure competency in the practices of healthcare providers.

The workshop is a part of CBH’s free monthly Breakfast Learning Series at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 2120 N. Fee Lane, in Bloomington. Breakfast is provided; no reservations are necessary; and seminar attendees are eligible for 1.5 units of Continuing Education credit.

April 4, 2003
CBH Participates in National Council Meeting

Dr. Dennis Morrison, CEO of Bloomington’s Center for Behavioral Health (CBH), recently returned from the National Council of Community Behavioral Health Centers Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado, where he gave a presentation on Evidence-Based Treatments. Center for Behavioral Health has garnered a national reputation for its success with, and mission to provide, treatments based on empirical evidence. Accompanying him were several CBH board members: Doug Bennett, Rob Hunter, Cathy Korinek, and Kenneth Shidler. Morrison expressed his pleasure at their attendance. “We have a philosophy of continuing education for board members. We want them to be better board members when they leave our board than when they arrived,” Morrison said.

Psychologist Relocated
November 5, 2002

Dr. Armen Sarkissian, Ed.D., HSPP, has recently opened an office for the private practice of Psychology at 205 N. College Avenue, Suite 150, Bloomington, Indiana, 47404-3960. Dr. Sarkissian is a generalist specializing in the treatment of depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Other areas of interest are behavioral problems in adolescent boys, and substance abuse. For more information, consultation, or to schedule an appointment, call (812) 331-2636.

JCAHO Cites Center for Behavioral Health in Publication
October 30, 2002

The Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) is the nation's predominant standards setting and accrediting body in health care. Its goal is to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public. In support of that goal, JCAHO recently published How to Recognize Abuse and Neglect (Joint Commission Resources, 2002), a "best practices" book that describes practical strategies organizations can use to help identify and deal with abuse and neglect. Center for Behavioral Health's (CBH) policies on the subject are featured in Chapter 5: "Behavioral Health Center Policies to Prevent Abuse and Neglect within the Organization." Authored by CBH Quality Improvement Manager, Linda Lumsden, the chapter is featured as an example of an effective program in action.

(Copies of the book may be obtained by contacting:
Joint Commission Resources
PO Box 75751
Chicago, IL 60675-5751
PH: 877-223-6866
FAX: 317-610-4022
Infomart@www.jarinc.com)

Mental Health's Role in Medical Healthcare
October 9, 2002

The Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) offers a presentation on Friday, October 18, 2002, from 8:00-9:30 a.m. entitled, "Mental Health in the Primary Care Setting." Leslie Robison, Ph.D., HSPP will offer a program focusing on how mental health practitiones are part of a collaborative network of providers. This involves an understanding of the interaction of mental and physical health with a special emphasis on how mental health issues can interfere with a person obtaining appropriate health care. The workshop is a part of CBH's free monthly Breakfast Learning Series at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 2120 N. Fee Lane, in Bloomington. Breakfast is provided; no reservations are necessary; and seminar attendees are eligible for 1.5 units of Continuing Education credits upon request.

Press Releases

November 30, 2004 Antidepressants, Adolescents & Suicide

November 30, 2004
Antidepressants, Adolescents & Suicide