Success Stories

Case Management: Many Hats, Big Impact Welcome to the Horizon Line podcast, where we delve into the vital role of case management in mental health and recovery. This episode features Ryan Weaks and Ashley Putt from Horizon Behavioral Health discussing how case management transforms lives by providing essential support for those facing mental health challenges and complex life stressors. What is Case Management? Case management might sound clinical, but it is far from that. As Ashley Putt explains, it is primarily about assisting individuals in accessing needed medical, social, educational, and other services. She describes it as wearing many hats: from administrative assistant to Uber driver, teacher, counselor, and even cheerleader. This multi-faceted role is crucial for clients who may struggle with accessing resources on their own. The Day-to-Day of a Case Manager Ashley shares insights into her daily responsibilities as a high-needs adult case manager. Whether it's helping clients get to appointments, securing food boxes, or writing referrals for housing, each task is aimed at supporting the client's journey toward independence. For instance, she mentions how important it is to evaluate treatment plans and collaborate with mental health providers, ensuring that every client's needs are addressed. The Importance of Building Relationships One of the key aspects of case management is building trusting relationships with clients. Ashley emphasizes that without trust, clients may not feel comfortable asking for help. She recounts a powerful story of a client who had been assigned four case managers in one year. By taking the time to learn her story, Ashley was able to build a bond that ultimately led to the client's success in finding housing and returning to school. Success Stories: Big and Small Throughout their discussion, Ryan and Ashley share inspiring success stories. One highlights a client who, after disappearing for a month, opened up about their struggles, leading to immediate support and treatment. Another touching example involves Ashley providing a client with shoes after learning they were walking in the cold with holes in their footwear. These stories reflect the profound impact case managers have on their clients' lives, demonstrating that even the smallest gestures can make a significant difference. How to Access Case Management Services For those listening who may need case management, Ryan stresses the importance of reaching out for help. Horizon Behavioral Health offers walk-in admissions, allowing individuals to start their journey toward support immediately. They can connect with case managers who are ready to assist them in navigating their challenges. Key Takeaways In conclusion, case management is a vital component of mental health support that goes beyond traditional definitions. It involves building relationships, offering essential resources, and advocating for clients to help them achieve independence and stability. As Ashley's stories illustrate, the work of case managers can lead to significant transformations in their clients' lives. If you or someone you know needs assistance, consider reaching out to Horizon Behavioral Health.

On this special episode of The Horizon Line, we focus on men's mental health, exploring the unique challenges men face and the importance of creating safe spaces for discussion. Special guests, Dr. Keith Anderson, a Certified Public Health Professional, Leroy Wingo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Bernnell Kindzred, Clinical Coordinator at Horizon, discuss the new Barbershop Talks Initiative, which aims to provide informal yet impactful conversations about mental health among men. They highlight the stigma surrounding mental health, the need for community support, and the significance of vulnerability in addressing emotional well-being. The discussion emphasizes on the importance of checking in on one another and fostering an environment where men feel comfortable sharing their struggles.

In our second episode of The Horizon Line, we have a deep conversation with Dr. Sara Bailey, Counselor Education Program Director at the University of Lynchburg and a counselor at Full Life Counseling and Recovery, PLLC, alongside Jennifer Smith-Ramey, Director of Grants and Programs at Horizon Behavioral Health, about the unique challenges women face regarding substance use disorders. They explore the historical context of women's addiction, the importance of gender-specific treatment, and the role of trauma-informed care. The discussion also highlights the balance between teaching and clinical practice, the ethical considerations in counseling, and the hope for recovery through community support and neuroplasticity.

In our inaugural episode of The Horizon Line, Ryan sits down with Kelli Griffiths, Maternal & Infant Program Manager at Centra, and Shiloh Martin, Project Link Coordinator at Horizon Behavioral Health to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by women, particularly in the context of maternal health. Listen in as we highlight the importance of understanding and supporting women through various stages of motherhood, including the significance of Bereaved Mother's Day, share insights on accessing mental health resources, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the various support services available here in Central Virginia, including ⁠Project Link⁠ and community resources. The conversation concludes with self-care strategies and the importance of setting boundaries.

Michele is a resilient mother celebrating sustained recovery. As a client of Horizon's Project Link Program, she has found tremendous confidence and strength in her recovery journey with help from her team at Horizon Behavioral Health. 

Jenni's journey to overcoming substance use. From mental health to support, relapse, and finding healing of body, mind and spirit. Jenni has found enjoyment in life, clean.