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Category: Mental Wellness

Celebrating Excellence: Our Pediatric Therapy Company Named Best Employers of NC for 2023 and 2024!

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We are thrilled to announce that our pediatric therapy company has been recognized as one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for 2023 and 2024 by Business North Carolina! This incredible achievement is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire team, and it highlights our commitment to providing exceptional care and services to the children and families in our community.

 

A Commitment to Excellence in Pediatric Therapy

Over the past 14 years, our organization has specialized in a comprehensive range of pediatric therapy services, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, mental wellness and counseling, and educational services. We have recently expanded to include services for adults in the past year and a half.  Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each child receives individualized care tailored to their unique needs, fostering their development and helping them reach their full potential.

 

  • Occupational Therapy: Our skilled occupational therapists help children develop the skills they need for daily living and academic success, focusing on fine motor skills, sensory processing, and more.

 

  • Speech Therapy: Our speech-language pathologists work with children to improve their communication skills, addressing challenges related to speech, language, and social communication.

 

  • Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists are dedicated to enhancing children’s mobility, strength, development, and coordination, enabling them to participate fully in everyday activities.

 

  • Mental Wellness and Counseling: We provide a supportive environment for children and adults to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve their mental health and well-being.

 

  • Educational Services: Our educational specialists offer academic testing and tutoring support for children with learning differences, helping them thrive academically.

 

Serving Eastern North Carolina with Dedication and Care

With multiple locations around Eastern North Carolina, our clinic is committed to making our services accessible to families throughout the region. We also have several virtual speech-language pathologists who can serve children across all of North Carolina. We understand the importance of providing high-quality care close to home, and our convenient locations ensure that children and families can receive the support they need without extensive travel.

 

Recognized as a Top Employer

Being named one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for two consecutive years is an honor that reflects our dedication to creating a positive and supportive work environment for our staff. We believe that happy, fulfilled employees are the foundation of excellent patient care. Our team members are passionate about their work and committed to making a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.

 

The survey conducted by DataJoe for Business North Carolina covered essential workplace topics, including organizational health, leadership, engagement, work-life balance, pay, training, benefits, and corporate social responsibility.

 

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on our mission to provide the highest quality pediatric therapy services in Eastern North Carolina. We are continually exploring new ways to enhance our programs, support our staff, and expand our reach to better serve our community.

Thank you to our incredible team, our wonderful patients and families, and everyone who has supported us on this journey. We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional care and to being a part of your child’s growth and development for many years to come!

Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you and your child’s needs. Together, we can help every child reach their full potential!

 

https://businessnc.com/topping-the-list-of-north-carolinas-best-employers-2024/

 

Embracing Mental Wellness: The Importance of Therapy for Pregnant and Postpartum Women Introduction

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Pregnancy and the postpartum period are times of significant change and adjustment for women and men. While these phases often bring joy and excitement, they can also be accompanied by emotional and psychological challenges. Hormonal changes, physical changes, and the demands of caring for a newborn can impact a woman’s mental health. Seeking mental wellness therapy during pregnancy and after childbirth can be a powerful step in ensuring overall well-being for both the mother and her baby.

Understanding Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common complications of childbirth, affecting approximately 1 in 7 women. PPD is more than just the “baby blues” — it is a severe form of depression that can occur after the birth of a child. Symptoms may include intense sadness, anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty bonding with the baby. If left untreated, PPD can affect the mother’s ability to care for her child and herself, potentially leading to long-term emotional and developmental issues for both.

The Benefits of Mental Wellness Therapy

Mental wellness therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where pregnant and postpartum women can express their feelings, learn coping strategies, and receive professional guidance. Here are some of the key benefits:

 

  1. Emotional Support

Therapy provides a non-judgmental space for women to share their thoughts and feelings. This emotional support is crucial, especially when friends and family may not fully understand the new mother is experiencing.

 

  1. Coping Strategies

Therapists can teach coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. These techniques can help help mothers navigate the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum life.

 

  1. Bonding with the Baby

Therapy can also focus on strengthening the mother-infant bond. By addressing issues such as postpartum depression and anxiety, therapy can help mothers develop a stronger, healthier relationship with their babies.

 

  1. Addressing Relationship Changes

The arrival of a new baby can put some tension on relationships with partners, family members, and friends. Therapy can help women and their partners communicate better, manage conflicts, and adjust to new roles and responsibilities.

 

  1. Preventing Long-Term Issues

Early intervention through therapy can prevent the rise of mental health issues. Addressing these concerns early can lead to better long-term outcomes for both the mother and the child.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we are committed to supporting the mental health of pregnant and postpartum women and their spouses. Our team of therapists has experience in maternal mental health and understands the different challenges faced during this time.

 

We begin by offering a detailed screening with one of our therapists. This initial step helps us understand your specific needs and concerns. Following the screening, we will work with you to schedule a therapy session. We aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where you can openly discuss your feelings and receive the help you need to thrive.

 

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or other mental health challenges during pregnancy or after childbirth, please reach out to Carolina Therapy Connection. We are here to help you on your mental wellness journey, ensuring you and your baby have the healthiest start possible.

 

Take the first step today by contacting us to schedule your screening and therapy session. Your mental health is our priority, and we are dedicated to walking this path with you.

 

🌟 Meet Starr, one of our dedicated Mental Wellness Therapists! With compassion and expertise, Starr helps individuals navigate pregnancy and postpartum journeys. She supports both parents, understanding the importance of a strong support system. Starr believes in the power of therapeutic alliance and meeting clients where they are on their path to healing. Click the link below to learn more!🤍

https://youtu.be/C1CQ-JJNMVU 

 

Nurturing Mental Wellness in Children: The Vital Role of Pediatric Therapy

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In today’s fast-paced world, children face many challenges that can impact their mental well-being. From academic pressures to social dynamics, the stressors they encounter can take a toll on their emotional health. As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to recognize the signs of mental distress in children and provide them with the necessary support to thrive.

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand the importance of nurturing childhood mental wellness from an early age. Our comprehensive counseling services are designed to address various issues, empowering children to develop coping mechanisms and build resilience for life’s challenges.

Understanding Childhood Mental Wellness

Childhood is a crucial period for mental development. It’s a time when children form their perceptions of the world and learn how to navigate their emotions. However, factors such as family dynamics, peer relationships, academic pressures, and societal expectations can influence their mental health.

As children grow and develop, they may encounter difficulties that affect their emotional well-being. These challenges can manifest in various ways, including:

  1. Behavioral Changes
  2. Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, withdrawal, or aggression, may indicate underlying emotional struggles.
  3. Academic Decline
  4. Difficulty concentrating, declining academic performance, or reluctance to attend school could be signs of anxiety or other mental health issues.
  5. Physical Symptoms
  6. Headaches, stomachaches, and other physical complaints without underlying medical causes may be linked to stress or emotional distress.

Recognizing these signs early on is crucial for addressing children’s mental health needs and preventing further complications.

The Role of Pediatric Therapy in Promoting Mental Wellness

Pediatric therapy plays a vital role in supporting children’s mental wellness. Our team of skilled therapy providers specializes in working with children and adolescents, providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to express their thoughts and feelings.

Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to each child’s unique needs, we help them:

  1. Develop Coping Skills
  2. Children learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
  3. Build Resilience
  4. Children develop resilience to bounce back from setbacks and adversities by fostering a sense of self-esteem and self-efficacy.
  5. Improve Communication
  6. Effective communication is key to expressing emotions and resolving conflicts. Our therapists help children improve their communication skills, both verbally and non-verbally.
  7. Strengthen Relationships

Healthy relationships are fundamental to children’s well-being. We work with families to improve communication and strengthen familial bonds.

Promoting Childhood Mental Wellness for a Brighter Future

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive emotionally and socially. Promoting mental wellness from an early age lays the foundation for healthier, happier futures.

If you’re concerned about your child’s emotional well-being or want to learn more about our counseling services, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced pediatric therapists.

Together, we can empower children to overcome obstacles, embrace their strengths, and live fulfilling lives. Let’s work together to nurture their mental wellness and unlock their full potential.

 

Our NEW Mental Wellness and Counseling Services

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Mental Wellness and Counseling Services at Carolina Therapy Connection

Carolina Therapy Connection is SO excited to begin providing Mental Wellness and Counseling Services! Do you ever feel like everyday is similar to jumping on the hamster wheel?! You expend all your energy day after day and it leaves you feeling empty, anxious, and overwhelmed. Whether you are a parent/caregiver, teen trying to navigate the world, or just someone that feels anxious and overloaded by life’s expectations, our licensed clinicians are here to come alongside you and help you to reach your fullest potential. We believe through the power of relationship and the therapeutic alliance, you possess the tools to navigate all of the road blocks and stepping stones in your life. Our hope is that you walk away from each session feeling heard and valued and the skills you are able to tap into will help alleviate some of those feelings of overwhelm.

What clinical approaches are used within our Mental Wellness and Counseling services?

Our services cover a wide range of interventions aimed at improving a child, teen, and family’s overall emotional well-being. These include:

Client-Centered Therapy

The concept of client centered therapy might seem obvious — after all, almost all kinds of humanistic counseling essentially focus on the client. However, what sets this type of therapy apart, is that it centers the client in a more positive and inclusive manner, providing deeper insight into the adversity they are facing, while also maximizing their ability to resolve it on their own. Many professionals use this ‘talk therapy’ as a support process that encourages positive change within the client. Client centered therapy was developed originally in the early 1930s with the ideology that no other person’s ideas or advice could be as valid as the particular individual’s experience, and that exploring those experiences in a supportive, nonjudgemental environment is necessary in order to achieve a positive therapy experience. It emphasizes that the client’s experience is just as valid as a professional’s insight, and therefore the two parties in the therapeutic relationship should be viewed as equals.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CPT) is an evidenced-based psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications. (American Psychological Association, 2017).

CBT is based on several core principles, including: 

  1. Psychological problems are based, in part, on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking.
  2. Psychological problems are based, in part, on learned patterns of unhelpful behavior.
  3. People suffering from psychological problems can learn better ways of coping with them, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.

CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns by:

  1. Learning to recognize one’s thoughts that create problems, and to reevaluate them in light of reality.
  2. Gaining a better understanding of our behavior and emotions.
  3. Using problem solving skills to cope with various situations.
  4. Learning to develop a greater sense and empowerment of our own abilities.

CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include:

  1. Facing fears rather than avoiding them.
  2. Using role play to prepare for real-life situations.
  3. Learning to calm and relax one’s mind and body.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DPT is a research-based practice that uses the skills and strategies balanced in terms of acceptance and change (University of Washington, Dialectical Behavior Therapy). The four skills modules include two sets of acceptance-oriented skills (mindfulness and distress tolerance) and two sets of change-oriented skills (emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness).

  • Mindfulness: the practice of being fully aware and present in this one moment
  • Distress Tolerance: how to tolerate pain in difficult situations, not to change it
  • Interpersonal Effectiveness: how to ask for what you want and say no while maintaining self-respect and relationships with others
  • Emotion Regulation: how to decrease vulnerability to painful emotions and change emotions that you want to change

Mindfulness Therapy 

Mindfulness therapy incorporates awareness of thoughts, emotions, feelings, surroundings, and situations into a person’s everyday life. It involves conversations with professionals that help a person develop greater awareness of their thoughts and the world around them. This increased awareness helps them avoid destructive or automatic responses or habits.

Who can receive Mental Wellness and Counseling services?

We will be accepting ALL AGES (not just kiddos!) for these services – so we encourage family and caregiver counseling too! You do not have to be a current or previous patient at Carolina Therapy Connection to receive these services.

Infant & Toddlers (Birth – 5 years old)

  • Attachment issues
  • Tantrums & Aggression
  • Excessive fear, worry or sadness
  • Does not respond to comfort when in distress
  • Lack of interest in peers

Early Childhood (6 years old – 12 years old)

  • Bullying
  • Social anxiety
  • Low self-esteem
  • Pressures of academia
  • Life changes (new schools, location or traumatic events)
  • Changes in family structure and dynamics
  • Physical aggression, defiance and lack of empathy for others

Teens, Adolescents & Young Adults (13 years old – 20+ years old)

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Lack of interest in activities
  • Difficulty concentrating or focusing
  • Difficulty sleeping and completing daily routine
  • Irritability and impulse control

Families & Caregivers

  • Anxiety & depression common among members of the household
  • Difficulty with finding parenting strategies
  • Constant arguments
  • Grief and loss
  • Recent or past traumatic events
  • Adjustments to life changes (i.e. divorce, new members of the household, changes in location)

Who will provide our Mental Wellness and Counseling services?

Meghan Respess Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carolina Therapy Connection

 

Everyone meet Meghan Respess, MSW, LCSW – Carolina Therapy Connection’s FIRST Licensed Clinical Social Worker!

Meghan has 11 years of professional work experience in the mental wellness and counseling field. Meghan graduated from East Carolina University in 2006 with a Family and Community Services degree. She worked in community mental health with both children and adults for several years before returning to East Carolina University to obtain a Masters in Social Work. She graduated in 2011 and then pursued her LCSW. She has experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. She also works with children and adults who deal with anger and impulse control. Meghan strives to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.

How will services be provided and what insurance is accepted?

Our Mental Wellness and Counseling services will be provided virtually (tele-therapy platform) OR in-person at our Greenville clinic location. It will consist of individual or family counseling. We will only be accepting Private Insurance and Private Pay only for now. We are in the process of getting credentialed with Medicaid for our counseling services and will keep you updated on when that insurance option is available!

How do I start get started with Mental Wellness and Counseling services?

Getting started is EASY! If you are interested in our mental wellness and counseling services, call or email us to get started today! Our referral coordinator will help answer any questions you may have and make the process as easy as possible for you!

References

APA Div. 12 (Society of Clinical Psychology). (2017, July). What is cognitive behavioral therapy? American Psychological Association. Retrieved February 7, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral

American Psychiatric Association (1998). Gold Award: Integrating dialectical behavior therapy into a community mental health program. Psychiatric Services, 49(10). 1338–1340.

University of Washington. (n.d.). Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Behavioral Research Therapy Clinics. Retrieved February 7, 2023, from https://depts.washington.edu/uwbrtc/about-us/dialectical-behavior-therapy/

Counseling services Greenville NC