News

Introducing Intensive Home-Based Treatment (IHBT) at Unison Health

Category: Blog

Intensive Home-Based Treatment (IHBT): A Game Changer in Mental Health Services Today, I'm excited to share something truly transformative in the world of mental health care—an approach that's making a significant difference right here in Northwest Ohio: Intensive Home-Based Treatment, or IHBT. Unison Health is implementing this innovative program

Read More


Transforming Families with IHBT

Category: Blog

What if traditional therapy isn't enough to stabilize a family in crisis? Join us as we uncover the answer with Veronica Laverde, the dynamic manager of Unison Health’s Intensive Home-Based Treatment (IHBT) program. Veronica takes us through her inspiring journey from early intervention programming to spearheading a transformative initiative that brings therapy and essential resources right into the homes of families. Learn how IHBT fills gaps in conventional therapy by offering a robust blend of support services, from food and housing assistance to school advocacy and community barrier resolution.

This episode unpacks the innovative team-based approach of IHBT, designed to provide families with a simplified and cohesive support network. With frequent interactions, often multiple times per week, and around-the-clock crisis support, the program is tailored for those at risk of out-of-home placement. Veronica highlights the role of Ohio Rise and Aetna Medicaid in facilitating access to these life-changing services, emphasizing the importance of keeping families united for more successful outcomes.

We delve into the daily lives and rigorous qualifications of IHBT staff, showcasing the extensive training and support they receive to make a real impact. Veronica shares powerful metrics of success, such as reductions in hospitalizations and school disciplinary actions, underscoring the program's effectiveness. Listen as Veronica discusses her passion for community service and her vision for positive change in her new role. Be sure to stay tuned for a future follow-up where we track the progress of her impactful work in the community.

Read More


Strategies to Enhance Children's Mental Wellness and Social Skills

Category: Blog

Navigating Summer: Strategies to Enhance Children's Mental Wellness and Social Skills Summer is a time of freedom and fun for children, but it can also introduce challenges like the "summer blues." In a revealing podcast episode, Julia Manolukas, a licensed professional clinical counselor and program manager at Unison Health, offers a comprehensive look

Read More


Combatting Summer Blues: Mental Wellness Activities for Kids

Category: Mental Health U

Could too much screen time be the culprit behind your child's summer blues? Join us as we sit down with Julia Monolukas, a licensed professional clinical counselor and program manager at Unison Health, to uncover the secrets of a stimulating and mentally enriching summer for kids. Julia sheds light on Unison Health's comprehensive summer program in Toledo, offering a rich mix of group therapy sessions, social skill practices, and engaging community outings to places like metro parks, the art museum, and the Toledo Zoo. Learn why maintaining peer connections and keeping kids engaged is essential to their mental well-being.

We'll also address the hidden dangers of excessive screen time, including mood swings, irritability, and isolation, and offer actionable tips to mitigate these effects. Discover how to combat the dreaded "summer slide" by establishing a structured schedule filled with fun, skill-building activities. Finally, celebrate the dynamic team behind these programs, whose passion and expertise make all the difference in fostering meaningful relationships and engagement with the youth. Tune in for an insightful conversation that promises to equip you with strategies for a fulfilling and enriching summer experience for your child.

Read More


Understanding and Combating Mental Health Stigma

Category: Blog

Breaking the Barriers: Understanding and Combating Mental Health Stigma In a world where mental health conversations are increasingly emerging, the importance of understanding, empathy, and action has never been more evident. The stigma surrounding mental health remains a widespread issue, often impeding individuals from seeking the help they need. This

Read More


Unraveling the Threads of Mental Health Stigma with Courtney Rice

Category: Mental Health U

Have you ever considered how the words we choose can reinforce the very stigmas we're trying to dismantle? Courtney Rice from NAMI Wood County joins us to unravel the complex tapestry of mental health stigma, sharing her wealth of experience that illuminates the damaging effects of misused labels and the power of empathy. Against the backdrop of her own personal and professional encounters, Courtney offers profound insight into how we can shift our language and attitudes to create a more supportive environment for those grappling with mental health challenges.

Mental health stigma erects formidable barriers, often leading those struggling to shy away from seeking help, sometimes with tragic outcomes. Our discussion ventures into the deep crevices of these issues, highlighting how open conversations and workplace wellness initiatives can serve as lifelines. We also analyze the post-pandemic surge in mental health problems within specific demographics, scrutinizing the dual nature of social media as both a connector and an isolator. By understanding these dynamics, we can better equip ourselves with the necessary tools to offer a helping hand.

The episode wraps up by shining a spotlight on the indispensable work done by NAMI Wood County. We delve into their vast range of programs and services, and introduce listeners to the Stigma Busters podcast—a platform amplifying the voices of those with lived experience and professionals in the field. Our appreciation for Courtney's insightful contributions sets the stage for continued discussions, as we strive to foster a society where mental health is treated with the care and understanding it deserves.

Read More


Addressing Childhood Depression: Proactive Strategies and Insights for Parents and Educators

Category: Blog

Addressing Childhood Depression: Proactive Strategies and Insights for Parents and Educators In the realm of mental health, childhood depression often presents unique challenges and symptoms that distinguish it from adult depression. Mental health professionals like Julia Manalukas and Megan Reinhart, who specialize in child and family programming at

Read More


Exploring Childhood Depression: Signs, Support, and Expert Advice

Category: Mental Health U

Transcript Megan Rinehart: 0:00 We called it Metro Park Monday and we would just pick a different metro park every Monday and go and explore the trails and the playground. But it was just a way for us to connect and she knew that every Monday that's what we were going to do. So I think, having looking for those opportunities to plan and spend time

Read More


Items 9-16 of 47