Success Stories

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.

On August 16th, 2023, Victoria “Tori” Hailey celebrated a triumphant milestone as she accepted her certificate of completion from the Bedford Family Treatment Drug Court (FTDC) program. On Graduation Day, dozens of her friends and family filled the courtroom to the brim to celebrate this inspiring accomplishment!

David Craft, a client of Horizon expresses how grateful he is for having found a hobby that he enjoys that also benefits his mental health. “I was always interested in art because my dad was an artist. I enjoyed doing model homes when I was a kid but did not become serious until later in life. Now, I am the third-generation model builder in my family. Art was instrumental in helping me build my confidence."

Join Zachary Burgess and Carl Mack, dedicated Peer Recovery Support Specialists, alongside Horizon Treatment Provider, Rhonda Turner, for an energizing discussion on the resources and opportunities available to support Central Virginians in recovery. Discover the transformative impact of the Peer Recovery Support Specialist role in various treatment programs like medication-assisted treatment, among other vital programs. Together, they illuminate how we, as a community, can foster understanding, create supportive spaces, and cultivate a culture that uplifts and empowers those on their recovery journey.