D.E.N.I.A.L.

Denial Says...
“I’m not the problem, they just Don’t understand me!”
“DeprEssion is normal; I know a lot of people who don’t leave their house for days when they are sad!”
“There is Nothing wrong with looking at naked women all night; I’m only late for work/school three times a week and my wife need to leave me alone.”
“I’m not hurting anyone else, I’m just hurting myself with my drinking”
“I don’t use cocaine As much as she does, only one of my children was born addicted!”
“I can pay that biLl on next week; I just need to buy this today because it’s on sale!”
“This medication has been helping me with my back pain for years and I can stop taking it anytime.”

Denial is so powerful and it is a part of everyone’s psychological makeup. When a person is in this state they tend to lose their ability to accurately judge situations because denial distorts the truth. Some how a person that is in denial does not recognize the “true” issue, but point their finger out to others or blame their physical or emotional dilemmas on other things; denial is self-deception.

Think of a moment when you were in denial. What caused you to wake up or become aware of your true reality? Most would think life hardships such as lost of job, failing grades, divorce, lost of driving license, parents fussing you out, or lost of home. There are more items that can be on this dreadful list and all of them may not be tangible. These sad situations do not ALWAYS open the eyes of a person that’s in denial, especially a person with a chemical dependency.

Nevertheless, it is 2010 and many desire to make changes in their lives. We may have a behavior, thought, or something we severely depend on that could be holding us back from making those changes. We could be in a state of denial and need someone to help us acknowledge our core issues. We have decided that we wanted to stop blaming, minimizing, rationalizing, generalizing, or hiding our blockers in order for us to awake and live in 2010. Please know The Bridges Center desire to help you, your friends, or your family members with this process.

Happy New Years!

Nancia Leath, LPC NCC
Clinical Director

Breast Cancer Awareness Month - October - Have you Been Impacted?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Bridges Center lost a dear staff member in March of 2009 due to breast cancer. We know if she was here today she would encourage every female that is 35 and older to get their mammograms. Please review video below and spread the word, "GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMS!"

Are You Mentally or Emotionally Healthy?

How do you know if you are mentally or emotionally healthy? Many strongly believe your emotional health is correlated to your attitude, behaviors, and decisions you make every second. Over the years as a mental health provider I found that many people do not know when they might need assistance in maintaining good emotional or mental health. Nevertheless, I came to the conclusion that many are not aware of the warning signs. You may ask yourself, what are the warning signs? Most of our lives are a routine; we make sure we eat, pay bills, handle life issue, attend parties, spend times with friends and family, work, or try to be productive. However, sometimes handling life issues can be very stressful, which affects our attitudes, behaviors, and coping ability, especially if children or teenagers are involved in the denominator. What are we doing to make sure we are emotionally stable in a world where we have to produce in order to maintain our families or take care of ourselves? There are many doors we can walk through to help us maintain good emotional health, but first of all lets identify when we need to seek emotional or mental health or those warning signs.

• If you feel life is overwhelming and believe you can’t move forward
• If your thoughts are continuing going and you find it difficult to focus – end up losing your job or failing classes
• If you’re hearing voices or seeing people or things you know are not real
• If you’re feeling like a failure and believe the only way you can escape extreme sadness, depression or anxiety is by death or defeating habits (drugs, alcohol, cutting of self, unsafe sex, etc.)
• If you have frequent or constant feelings of hopelessness and extreme doubt
• If you are continually feeling alone and powerless
• If you cry easily and often for no apparent reason
• If you can’t sleep – or sleep too much
• Have thoughts of death or suicide – PLEASE GET HELP NOW!

Now that we are aware of a few warning signs, what can we do to help maintain good emotional or mental health? Please read a list of ideas below but know there are many more positive things you can do.

• Get a therapist that you feel comfortable talking to and will not judge you
• Join a group that will allow you to talk and learn from, find a meet and greet, or people that you can relate to and do activities with
• Find a friend(s) that you can develop a good relationship with; a person that will support you and allow you to vent when you need to
• Try to gain balance with all your activities such as – exercising, work, play, or relaxation
• Learn different techniques to cope with stress – writing, walking, listening to music, singing, exercising, driving, praying, etc
• Get enough rest and try to eat healthy meals
• Find time to do things you enjoy that will not harm you
• Try not to develop stress and anxiety because of procrastination, get tasks done on time
• Listen to what others have to say and find someone to help or give out to

These are just a few things you can do, but please don’t ignore the signs or not help yourself due to pride. We all find ourselves in a place we need more than what we can offer ourselves. So I repeat my question to you, are you emotionally or mentally healthy? All you have to do is look at your life...

Nancia Leath, LPC, NCC
Clinical Director

The Pursuit Of The Goal

“Many are stubborn in the pursuit of the path they have chosen, few in the pursuit of the goal” – Nietzche

When we find ourselves chasing only the path we are traveling and not understanding the purpose of why we are traveling a particular path, we may find ourselves having feelings of despair or frustrations. The key is for us to know our purpose or our goals for the things we do in our lives in order to help maintain meaning and harmony. This also goes for our clients and our staff at The Bridges Center (TBC). It is hard for a clinician to provide mental health services to a client who believes he/she does not have mental health disturbances, because our goal is to provide the best mental health services to our clients. A client could possibly state, “I do not need counseling.” This is true from the client’s perspective, because at that moment the client may not consider their thoughts of suicide or cutting on themselves to be a “real” problem, until they find themselves in the hospital getting their stomach pumped because of taking excessive medication. However, when the client is at a place he/she understands the need for mental health services or agrees with the purpose of having weekly therapy sessions to address their need to change most likely the client’s feelings of frustration towards the services tend to decrease drastically.

Not only is it beneficial for a client to see purpose for treatment, it is also imperative for the staff at TBC to understand the purpose for providing mental health services to our clients. In order for TBC staff to be productive mental health agents and fulfill our wonderful CEO/COO mission we will need to know the goals, have a wiliness to live them out, and understand how to do them. Chasing the mission or Nietzche would say “pursuit of the goal” gives the work we do at TBC LIFE!

(TBC Staff Training)

It was good to hear Vanessa Herbert, our Intake and Referrals Specialist state the reason why she enjoyed working for TBC, “What I like about The Bridges Center is the purpose of the agency, helping children and adults work toward emotional and mental well being” or Kimberly Taylor, LPAC our Interim Clinical Manager for Core Services convey, “I enjoy working with a team of dedicated people who have a heart for the children, their families, and the communities they live in. Their passion for what they do drives me to contribute my best every day.” These are not just words from TBC staff, but their contributions in helping fulfill the goal of TBC and not focusing on the challenges of doing their job are seen on a daily basis. (Photo: Kimberly Taylor, LPAC and Nancia Leath, LPC)

We are moving in the Right Direction, taking steps towards our goals at TBC, but most of all WE ARE FAMILY!

Nancia Leath, MA, LPC
Clinical Director

Simple

Simple is focusing on what really matters.
Simple is realizing that when God calls, your spirit is the only thing he wants. The rest is whisped away with the dust.
Simple is those moments you spend holding your children and kissing your husband.
Simple is being able to wear your favorite blue jeans and a t-shirt to work if it feels right that day.
Simple is doing what feels right to you and not worrying about what others think.
Simple is knowing that you will mess up sometimes..and that's okay, everyone does.
Simple is recognizing that no one is perfect only God.
Simple is knowing that "things" don't matter and can be taken from you at any moment
Simple is being able to be content with your life.
Simple is not getting too comfortable and embracing change.
Simple is not easy, because the world is complex.
Simple is not popular because of people's expectations.
Simple is humble.
...it is real and true.
Simple is you.

Thanks!

When people read our blog it is refreshing to know that you felt that The Bridges Center was a "place" that deserved a moment of your time...that makes everything we do worth so much. Look for more blogs from our staff from frequently. THANKS!

I LOVE K.I.M - By Dr. Winfrey, LPC, COO

I wanted to let you all know about my love affair with K.I.M. This is something that I should have shared with you all a long time ago. Let me tell you about K.I.M. and you maybe, just maybe, see why I love K.I.M!

When things are going on it in my life, I often look to K.I.M., for comfort, direction, piece of mind, K.I.M is brings me purpose, revelation, belonging, strength, and faith. When K.I.M and I first met, it was a match made in heaven. I have become addicted to K.I.M. I want to introduce you all to this entity...

K.I.M is KEEPING IT MOVING. When circumstances occur in your life, sitting still, claiming to be a victim, and not taking your own destiny in your hand are idle practices that do not promote our growth and betterment. By KEEPING IT MOVING, whatever is a weight to your heart and soul becomes a thing of the past as you distance yourself from it by doing, guess what? KEEPING IT MOVING.

We have undergone some transitions, issues, betrayal, hate, and animosity that would make most individuals say "This is not worth it! All we are trying to do is help the world and this is what we get in return? Close the doors, shut The Bridges Center down." But, see that when K.I.M whispers and says "What is my name?" and we respond by not just saying, but by actually, KEEPING IT MOVING.

This is what we tell our families and clients in need. Been hurt? KEEP IT MOVING! Free yourself, distance yourself, better yourself. Been let down resulting in downtrodden feelings? KEEP IT MOVING! Move forward with a reckless abandon! The world tells you no to your own destiny and future? KEEP IT MOVING! Your success is not for the world to approve of as if has no right to defer your dreams, goals, aspirations, and talents.

The more you KEEP IT MOVING, the further one gets away from distractions and closer one gets to the destination. I say to you, draw the line in the sand, tell your adversaries with boldness and proclamation, "I DARE YOU TO CROSS THIS LINE!" You will reach where you aspire to go, but only by 'KEEPING IT MOVING".

So as an agency, we proclaim that whatever comes, we will KEEP IT MOVING. Take that however you'd like. But write it down, because it is what we WILL do.

So world,, meet K.I.M. K.I.M meet the world. Now let your love affair begin...It's ok, I don't mind sharing.

Something To Clinically Ponder On….

What do you perceive when you read these statements?

“I can’t stop thinking about how he raped me, please help me..”

“I don’t want to talk about what happened in the past, I need to stop fighting people!”

“All I can see is hitting him in the face if he looks at me wrong again! You can’t change that!”

“I’m just crazy like that; I always get in trouble at school because I can’t control my attitude!”

“I’m never going to feel happy…”

How would you help the people that are stating those declarations as their therapist or mental health provider?

There are so many therapeutic approaches you can take, but I recommend using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Cognitive Therapy. CBT can help your clients with gaining better control over impulses and moods, resolve relationship conflicts, and assist with making good decisions. Most would call the statements mentioned above as distorted thoughts and beliefs that causes anger or pain. As a mental health provider or therapist, we can help our clients replace those “negative thoughts” so they will feel and function better when they are angry or feeling overwhelmed. One of the wonderful qualities about CBT is that most people see improvement within just a few weeks of participation.

So if you are a client and find yourself saying or thinking similar statements listed above, ask your therapist or mental health provider about cognitive therapy or CBT. And if you are a mental health provider and you hear your clients saying similar comments think about incorporating CBT in your sessions. Help your clients cross over their Bridges!

Something to clinically ponder on....

Nancia Leath, Clinical Director

CARF

Had our survey last week to update CARF Accreditation. WENT OVERWHELMINGLY WELL! Lead Surveyor said that he has done over 100 surveys and our agency was one of the best he had ever seen.

To stay on top of things, the work has just begun. Actually, it has ALWAYS "Just begun." As we grow and take on new initiatives, we are crossing monumental bridges.

Elana Winfery, MEd, LPC
CEO

Haters are ALWAYS motivators

....Atleast for me they are. They let me know that i am doing something right. They are usually mad because they see soemthing you have that they want....

Not sure where haters come from...but I thank God for them.

Let your haters be YOUR motivators. They are a natural right of passage on the road of success. They will help you SUCCEED!

SOLUTIONS

Be a part of the solution, not the problem!

Solution

• Initiate new ideas
• Take action to carry out those ideas
• Innovation
• When you see a need, do something about it. Don't just "point" at it.
• Acknowledge your role in changes that need to be made

Problem

• Complaining
• Spending time owrried about what other people are doing and trying to "bring them down" (In urban communites, we call that being a HATER.
• Ignoring issues that need to be addressed

Our Niche- Urban Youth

Specializing work with Urban youth is an ever evolving experience. Urban populations have very unique needs.

I remember when I first moved to Atlanta and road a MARTA train downtown, I saw a kid who looked to be about 12 years old riding the train...there was no adult with him. It caught me off guard----where was an adult to direct, protect and supervise him in this very public, risky, free, "destination unknown" environment. Then I realized, when he stood up to get off the train, threw his bag on his back, with a look stating that he knew where he was going and where he had just come from. He was an independent thinking, self-preserving, self-protecting, no fear-having, "find a way, make a way"---URBAN YOUTH.

Elana Winfrey, MEd, LPC

Staff Spotlight December 2008

THE BRIDGES CENTER PROUDLY PRESENTS:



Linda Branch
TEAM LEADER/ THERAPIST

The CEO of The Bridges Center, Mrs. Elana Winfrey , sat down with Ms. Branch for a good old family chat and here is what was said:

Mrs. Winfrey: What do you like most about your job?
Linda: There are many things that I enjoy; however, at the top of the list are that I enjoy working with the kids, and appreciate the fact that I have a good team of people to work with.

Mrs. Winfrey: What schools did you attend?
Linda: Tompkins Cortland Community College - Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts - Social Science Binghamton University - Bachelor's Degree - Psychology Major Cambridge College/Elmira College - Master's Degree - Mental Health Counseling Walden University - Ph.D. - Currently in school - Health Psychology.

Mrs. Winfrey: Who are your role models?
Linda: God and His Son. I walk a Christian walk in an effort to be like Christ! Everyone in my family! I have 2 sisters that are amazing (one is a lawyer and jewelry designer and the other a substance abuse counselor, singer, as well as minister). My dad (professor/sociologist) is a genius, and my mom (musician) is a great spiritual guide and source of strength. They are all people I look up to. My kids and nephews remind me to always have fun and remind me daily that “It's not that serious!” I have a close-knit family that I wouldn't trade for anything! I'm blessed.

In the Bridges Center I would have to give Angela Rozier props - she really set me up and on my way. She has a lot of knowledge and is a great source of guidance and information. Mr. Dunn also got me very excited to work here. I appreciate his passion. He's always there to provide good advice and remind me to handle my business, but to take care of myself!

Mrs. Winfrey: What is your greatest accomplishment to date?
Linda: Having my 2 kids. God blessed me...and they love and LIKE each other, too! My greatest accomplishment truly is being blessed with my kids. I know I'm doing a good job when my 14 year old kisses me on the cheek and tells me he loves me daily, and when my 9 year old sits on my lap and hugs me and tells me she loves me, too.

Mrs. Winfrey: Do you have any children?
Linda: Yes. Hannah is 9, and Isaiah is 14.

Mrs. Winfrey: What is unique about Linda?
Linda: I don't know how unique this is, but: I enjoy writing and composing music, I play cello and piano, and enjoy dancing and singing (dancing and singing in the privacy of my own home-of course!) I love eating Lucky Charms at night, and still enjoy watching Good Times, Three's Company and The Jefferson’s!

Vision for 2009

As we end 2008, our Managers are meeting, refocusing, and renergizing. We are determined to continue to improve in the areas of

PRODUCTIVITY- Measurable work loads, holding staff accountable
EFFICIENCY- Being consistant, streamlining our processes
TECHNOLOGY- The best software, paperless system, field work access, computer security. Technology helps us to work Smarter not Harder. Minmizes human error
PROVIDING THE BEST SERVICE TO OUR "CUSTOMERS" (Stakeholders)- We don't compete with other agencies. We strive to be the BEST we can possibly be to OUR customers.
AGENCY CULTURE- Understandig how to be laid back, "Do You" agency and still be the BEST.
COMMUNICATING OUR VISION- doing so effectively to all of are Stakeholders.

We have a very loyal and dedicated STAFF at The Bridges Center. I am excited about the coming year.

Elana

Our Marriage brought into our work

This video is of Kindred, one of my husband's and my favorite artists.

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/myfox/pages/Entertainment/Detail?contentId=7999563&version=2&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=7.1.1

Bringing your relationship into your work, in a productive way, is magical. The power of two whose hearts have a common goal both personally and professionally is AWESOME. Sharing YOU and your life can be inspirational for others.

Elana Winfrey, MEd, LPC, CEO

Being "Real"

Being "Real" is not easy, but it is a LOT easier than the contrary. Keeping up facades, putting on a "face," ---it just seems like a great deal of energy and effort. So I choose to be ME in everything that I do, and I encourage my staff, Our Staff, to be themselves. The "Real" you is what makes you special. Just Do It and don't stress over what others think about the "Real" YOU. Unless you're harming yourself or others, then DO IT. If others don't support you---then you may need to consider if you need those OTHERS around you.

Several of my hardest working, most loyal and dedicated staff have told me that they knew TBC was the place that they wanted to work when the CEO conducted their interview with NO SHOES ON. I really didn't think about it at the time....I just feel at home when I'm at work. When I feel at home, and my feet ache, I take off my shoes. It's the "Real" me . A little TOO real you say? An REBT Theorist would ask you, "What exactly is TOO real??"

So, Dr. Wright, keep wearing your house slippers around the office.

Elana Winfrey, MEd, LPC
Program Director/ CEO

New Baby 7/7

For those of you who have seen me pregnant, it is finally over. The hard part is over and the fun has begun. "Bossman" Winfrey arrived on July 7th at 3am. 9lbs, 15oz (just 1 oz short of 10 pounds)...and to think, I delivered 10 days early.

He is now 4 1/2 months old and even Bossier...I guess he got it honestly.

Elana Winfrey, MEd, LPC, Program Director/CEO

...and slave to the "Bossman" at home.

The Bridges Center Board

Welcome to The Bridges Center Board.