Since there is an “overwhelming number of children” who need mental-health services, The Center for Counseling & Consultation started a new program to better accommodate families, said Shanna Long, Community Based Services clinical coordinator.
The Center now offers Access Groups that can help bridge the gap between the agency’s intake process and a child receiving individual therapy services.
Mindfulness activities are at the core of these groups, which are available for children ages 3 through 18 who become clients at The Center; they meet at least twice a month. A child may attend all or just some of the sessions.
“Mindfulness means paying attention to life in the here and now,” Long explained. “The whole idea is to learn and then practice coping skills. We want to help build a solid foundation for children to work from.”
Access Groups are designed for children struggling with anger, hyperactivity, lack of focus, anxiety or depression. Activities involve connecting, breathing, moving, focusing and relaxing.
“For example,” Long said, “certain exercises encourage kiddos to notice their breathing and how to regulate it. These activities can: decrease the negative response to stress; have a calming effect; or even energize the child.
“If you are anxious and panting, the more you pant the more anxious you become,” she continued. “On the other side of the coin, breathing techniques can increase energy.”
Throughout these and other activities, a child will begin noticing themselves and their surroundings, which builds relationships and connections, Long added.
The groups accommodate up to six children at a time. Long chooses a theme, such as animals or games, for each session.
“Yes, we want quiet and relaxation but we also want to have fun and be playful as children take time to notice their surroundings and how they feel,” she said. “These evidence-based practices can help create awareness outside the group in day-to-day life.”
The groups don’t follow a rigid curriculum; each session stands on its own. As she considers the needs of a group, Long tries to accommodate particular situations.
“I am really excited about this program. We always look for ways to meet families’ needs,” said Long, who also is a licensed social worker. “I have a background in group facilitation and realize the value of participants learning from one another.
“They will better connect with themselves, the environment and other people.”
Julie Kramp, The Center’s executive director, said she appreciates “Shanna’s initiative and positive outlook, which enhance our ability to serve children who deserve our services, despite the high demand on our workforce.
“Mindfulness practices are fantastic and have shown proven results. They are truly innovative and Shanna should be commended for her commitment to the people we serve.”
For more information or to schedule a child’s intake at The Center, contact Long by calling 620-792-2544 or 1-800-875-2544.
The Center for Counseling & Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.