News Posts Archive - Page 4 of 20 - Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute

A Tribute to Women’s Enduring Legacy in Psychology

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) honors the extraordinary contributions of women in health care who have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of mental health and humanity. Their pioneering work challenged the conventions of their time and laid the groundwork for future research and therapeutic practices.

Mary Whiton Calkins

Despite facing institutional sexism that denied her a Harvard PhD, Mary Whiton Calkins made indelible marks in psychology. The first female president of the American Psychological Association (APA), Calkins’ innovative research in memory and self-psychology challenged and expanded the boundaries of psychological understanding. Her development of the paired-association technique has had lasting implications for the study of memory, showcasing her resilience and dedication to science.

Margaret Floy Washburn

Margaret Floy Washburn’s contributions to psychology were equally groundbreaking. As the first woman to earn a doctorate in psychology, Washburn’s research in animal behavior and cognition bridged the gap between biology and psychology. Her tenure as APA president and her work, particularly “The Animal Mind,” has significantly influenced the study of comparative psychology, demonstrating the profound impact of meticulous research and scholarly rigor.

Christine Ladd-Franklin

Christine Ladd-Franklin’s journey in psychology was marked by her fervent advocacy for women’s rights and her significant contributions to color vision theory. Her research challenged prevailing views and advocated for a more evolutionary perspective. Ladd-Franklin’s persistence in fighting for academic recognition highlights the importance of diversity in scientific inquiry and the value of perseverance.

Read more about Ladd-Franklin at Vassar.edu.

Eleanor Maccoby

Eleanor Maccoby’s influential research on gender roles has fundamentally altered our understanding of child development and family dynamics. Her work emphasized the nuanced interplay between biological and environmental factors in developing gender identities, enriching the dialogue on sex differences and promoting a more inclusive understanding of human psychology.

Mary Ainsworth

Mary Ainsworth, renowned for developing the attachment theory, illuminated the crucial role of early emotional bonds in child development. Through her meticulous observational studies, Ainsworth identified the various attachment patterns and their implications for emotional and social development. Her insights into the nature of caregiver-child relationships have profoundly influenced theoretical and practical approaches to parenting and childcare.

Read more about Ainsworth in this article from Inge Bretherton, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

These women, through their unwavering dedication and pioneering research, have advanced modern health care and paved the way for future generations of mental health professionals. At PPI, we draw inspiration from their legacies as we strive for excellence in the care we provide, embodying the spirit of innovation and compassion they exemplify.

Expert Opinions

Learn more about the team at PPI by reading these expert opinions:

Advancing Mental Health Care for BIPOC Communities in Central Pennsylvania by Janet Passley-Clarke, PhD, DNP

Art Therapy: Embracing Innovative Therapeutic Approaches by Vanessa Clough, MA, ATR-P

Bridging Mental Health and Substance Abuse: PPI’s Holistic Approach to Recovery by Sarah Kawasaki, MD

Child and Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Program, Shannon Rudy, MS, MBA, LPC

A Glimpse into the World of Psychiatric Nursing, Tiffany Downs, MSN, RN

The Power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy at PPI by Shana Rivera, LSCW, C-DBT

Psychiatric Care for Mature Adults, Julie Graziane, MD

Empowering Change: Dr. Elisabeth J. Kunkel’s Dedication to Diversity, Inclusion and Mental Health

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health Enterprise owned by Penn State Health, proudly showcases the academic journey of Dr. Elisabeth J. Kunkel. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Kunkel’s path from an intellectually curious student at McGill University to a pioneering leader as PPI’s Chief Medical Officer has been marked by significant contributions to psychiatry and relentless support for equity in medicine.

Creating a Supportive Culture

Under Dr. Kunkel’s leadership, PPI has become a model of diversity and inclusion, creating a nurturing environment for all staff and enhancing patient care through a broadened perspective. “I knew I wanted to start a community and public psychiatry fellowship,” to provide expertise to patients and their families. “Mentoring faculty and developing them and their careers has given me great pleasure.” Her mentorship and leadership development initiatives have fostered a supportive culture that values every individual’s contribution, paving the way for future generations of all medical professionals.

Dr. Kunkel’s leadership extends to building a nurturing workplace at PPI, where providers are encouraged to pursue educational opportunities that contribute to their personal growth. This makes providers feel that their work is meaningful and valuable. This support enhances the team’s overall effectiveness and academic productivity. Her emphasis on mentorship, respect and academic nourishment forms the cornerstone of an inclusive culture that values everyone’s contribution.

“I think mentorship and support for faculty and making them feel respected, valued and academically nourished is important. Academic support, including education, research and clinical care are always on the top of my list,” Dr. Kunkel explains. “If somebody says to me, ‘Doctor Kunkel, I want to do XYZ. This is an educational opportunity for me, and this is what it’s going to bring back to the team.’ If I can make it happen for them, I make it happen.”

This philosophy not only underscores Dr. Kunkel’s importance on individual development and team synergy, but also reflects PPI’s overarching mission to provide a workplace where diversity is embraced and every staff member is empowered to reach their full potential. Through such a supportive framework, PPI stands as a model institution that excels in psychiatric care and fosters a culture of inclusivity and professional growth.

Addressing the Mental Health Crisis

With a deep understanding of the current mental health landscape, Dr. Kunkel has been at the forefront of efforts to make mental health care more accessible and effective.

“We’re in a mental health crisis nationally right now,” stresses Kunkel. “The rates of mental illness and suicidal ideation have skyrocketed, leading to full and congested emergency rooms. So many people are knocking at our door that it’s harder to get in. There’s an access crisis that drives the mental health crisis.”

This surge in demand for mental health services has led to the significant access crisis. Recruitment of providers can’t keep pace with the request for services. Recruitment must blend in a plan to meet each applicants’ personal and professional career development goals.

Explaining the difficulties patients face in accessing care, Kunkel offered, “One thing that people don’t understand is if they call up, and they say I want an appointment with you, and the person on the other end of the phone says we don’t have anybody taking new patients right now. That isn’t the end of the conversation.”

In these situations, Dr. Kunkel advises:

Asking if there is a waiting list
If so, requesting to be put on the waiting list
Following up regularly to see where they stand on the list
Doing the same steps at multiple locations and programs simultaneously

At PPI, patients can contact the Admissions Department, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by phone at 717-782-6493 or 866-746-2496.

A Legacy of Leadership

Dr. Kunkel’s influence extends beyond PPI, with her advocacy work, contributions to organized medicine, and national networking impacting mental health policy at both state and federal levels. Nationally, Dr Kunkel is Past Chair of the AAMC CMO Group Steering Committee and at the State level, she sits on the Board of Directors for HAP.

Her leadership style, marked by compassion, innovation and resilience, inspires women and people of diverse backgrounds to excel in medicine, psychiatry and beyond.

As we honor Dr. Kunkel’s achievements, PPI reaffirms its commitment to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity, encourages innovation and academic productivity and supports the well-being of all her colleagues.

Helping Women to Reach Their Full Potential: How to Access Mental Health Resources in Central PA

Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is proud to advocate for accessible, inclusive mental health care for all. The information below is aimed to highlight mental health resources that focus on women.

Online Resources

Depression Among Women: On their website, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention share facts about women and depression, such as depression risk factors and how it affects new parents.
Office on Women’s Health: Learn more about the factors that affect women’s mental wellness on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office on Women’s Health website.
Women’s Health: The National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus offers resources on the unique health issues women experience (Español).
Maternal Health: The Health Resources and Services Administration offers programs and resources on maternal health, including depression during and after pregnancy.
Mom’s Mental Health Matters: Learn more about the risk factors of depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy.
Pennsylvania 211: PA resource that helps with mental health crisis lines, counseling and treatment. Includes support groups, case management and mentoring programs.

Helplines

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: This hotline offers free, confidential mental health support for parents and their families before, during and after pregnancy. Call or text 833-852-6262 to connect with counselors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. English- and Spanish-speaking counselors are available.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: The lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat.
Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute Admissions Department: If anyone other than a doctor is making a referral to one of our treatment programs, please know that a patient must be willing to sign in for voluntary treatment. To begin the process, contact the Admissions Department at: 866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493.
Disaster Distress Helpline: This helpline from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides immediate crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. The helpline is free, multilingual, confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 800-985-5990. (Oprima 2 para español)

“In the journey towards mental wellness, remember you’re not alone. Reaching out isn’t a sign of defeat, but a victory over stigma. At PPI, we’re your allies, steadfast in the belief that everyone deserves understanding and compassionate care.”
– Ruth S. Moore, Director of Community Engagement, Diversity & Inclusion

If you would like to learn more about the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone, 866-746-2496 or through our website.

We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.

Breaking the Silence on Postpartum Depression

In the journey of parenthood, the arrival of a new baby is often met with joy, celebration and a deep sense of fulfillment. However, for many new parents this transformative period can also bring about unexpected feelings of sadness, anxiety and isolation, signaling the onset of postpartum depression (PPD). The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a leading authority in mental health care in central Pennsylvania, is dedicated to breaking the silence around PPD, offering support, understanding and comprehensive treatment to those affected.

Understanding Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a complex mental health condition that can affect anyone after giving birth and is characterized by persistent negative feelings. Affecting approximately one in eight new gestational parents, PPD can significantly impact their ability to care for themselves and their newborn. Unlike the more common and milder “baby blues,” which resolve within two weeks, PPD symptoms are more intense and can last much longer, requiring professional intervention.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of PPD can range from mild to severe, including but not limited to:

Feeling angry or moody.
Feeling sad or hopeless.
Feeling guilty, shameful or worthless.
Eating more or less than usual.
Sleeping more or less than usual.
Loss of interest, joy or pleasure in things previously enjoyed.
Withdrawing from friends and family.
Possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself.

These symptoms are often compounded by sleep deprivation and the physical recovery from childbirth, making it challenging for new parents to seek help.

The exact causes of PPD are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of hormonal, biochemical, environmental, psychological and genetic factors. Rapid hormonal changes after childbirth, personal or family history of depression and stress are significant contributors.

Understanding Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression

Awareness of the risk factors associated with PPD is crucial in identifying and supporting those at higher risk. According to the Office of Women’s Health, certain conditions and experiences can elevate the risk of developing PPD. These include:

Gestational parents who have had depression before or during pregnancy are at a higher risk.
A family history of depression increases the likelihood of experiencing PPD.
Those who have experienced abuse or adversity in childhood may be more susceptible.
A difficult or traumatic birth, problems with a previous pregnancy or childbirth or having a baby with special health care needs can contribute to the development of PPD.
The lack of a strong support network from family, friends or partners can heighten the risk.
Experiencing domestic violence now or in the past is a significant risk factor.
Relationship struggles, financial issues or other stressful life events can increase the risk.
Younger gestational parents especially those under the age of 20, are more at risk.
Difficulties with breastfeeding can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress, contributing to PPD.
Having a premature baby or one with health issues can be overwhelming and stressful, leading to PPD.
An unplanned pregnancy can increase the risk of PPD due to the potential for added stress and emotional turmoil.

Addressing Postpartum Depression

Recognizing the impact of PPD on gestational parents and their families, PPI emphasizes a multifaceted approach to support and treatment, drawing on recommendations from the Office of Women’s Health. Understanding that everyone’s journey with PPD is unique, PPI advocates for personalized care plans that may include a combination of therapy, support groups, self-care, social support and medication.

Therapy and Counseling
Engaging in therapy or counseling with a mental health professional is pivotal in navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of PPD. These sessions provide a safe space to explore feelings, understand the underlying causes of distress and develop coping strategies.

Support Groups
Joining a support group offers the invaluable benefit of shared experiences and mutual understanding. Connecting with others facing similar struggles can foster a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

Self-Care
Self-care is a cornerstone of managing PPD, emphasizing rest, nutrition and physical activity. Prioritizing sleep, consuming a nutrient-rich diet and exercise can significantly impact one’s mental health and overall well-being.

Social Support
The role of social support cannot be overstated. Reaching out to family, friends or trusted individuals for help and guidance provides emotional comfort and practical assistance, which is crucial during this challenging time.

Medication
For some, medication is a necessary component of treatment. Antidepressants, for example, can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Breaking the Silence

One of the most significant barriers to seeking help for PPD is the stigma and silence surrounding the condition. Many parents feel ashamed or guilty for not experiencing the happiness they believe is expected of them, fearing judgment or being labeled as unfit parents. PPI is committed to changing this narrative by promoting open discussions about PPD, emphasizing that it is a common and treatable condition, not a failure.

Effects on Parenting and Personal Well-being

Parents experiencing untreated PPD may find themselves struggling with the following:

Feeling perpetually tired, which can significantly impact their ability to engage in daily activities and care for their child.
PPD can make it hard to concentrate on the baby’s and one’s own needs, affecting decision making and prioritization.
The overwhelming feelings of sadness or hopelessness associated with this condition can hinder a parent’s ability to care for their baby adequately.
PPD can lead to heightened irritability or moodiness, affecting interactions with the baby and others.
In severe cases, untreated PPD can escalate to thoughts of harming oneself or the baby highlighting the need for immediate intervention.

The repercussions of untreated PPD on children can manifest in various developmental areas:

There may be delays in language development and challenges in learning, impacting academic achievement.
Difficulties in parent-child bonding can lead to behavior problems, increased crying or agitation and challenges in social interactions.
Research indicates a potential link between PPD and physical outcomes for the child, such as shorter stature and a higher risk of obesity in preschoolers.
Children may face difficulties dealing with stress and adjusting to school and other social situations, affecting their resilience and coping mechanisms.

PPI’s Role in Supporting Parents

As part of its mission, PPI provides a compassionate and understanding environment for people facing PPD. With a comprehensive team of specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists and counselors, PPI offers a range of services tailored to each individual’s needs. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, support groups and holistic approaches to wellness, ensuring that everyone receives the care and support necessary for recovery.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PPD, it’s crucial to seek help. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes for the parents and the child. At PPI, we encourage new parents to seek support without fear of judgment. Our team is here to guide you through your recovery journey, offering the tools and resources needed to regain your strength and well-being.

Postpartum depression is a condition that no one should have to face alone. By breaking the silence and providing a supportive community, PPI aims to empower people to seek the help they need. Remember, reaching out for support is a sign of strength and the first step towards healing. Together, we can ensure that everyone can experience parenthood’s joy to its fullest.

For more information on PPI’s services and resources for postpartum depression, or if you or someone you know needs help, please don’t hesitate to contact PPI’s Admissions Department. Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 717-782-6493. Your call will be handled with confidentiality and compassion by our dedicated professionals, who are here to guide you through your recovery journey.

Congratulations Dr. Passley-Clarke, Vice Chair of Diversity

We are excited to announce that Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke has accepted the Vice Chair of Diversity role for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health! Dr. Passley-Clarke began her career at Penn State Health in 2017 and holds the role of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Manager and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She earned both a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a PhD. Dr. Passley-Clarke serves as a National Advisor for the American Nurses Association Minority Fellowship Program, where she mentors professionals in minoritized communities pursuing graduate degrees in psychiatry and behavioral health. She is also mentoring a nurse practitioner of diversity at Hamilton Health Center, to foster collaboration between health systems. Recently, she was featured in the Penn State Health News Spotlight, which discussed advanced practice providers (APPs) and the lack of diversity within the ranks at Penn State Health and across the United States. She is coauthoring a book on the challenges experienced by health care professionals who face prejudice from patients and others in the workplace. Dr. Passley-Clarke is an active member of the DEI committee and has assisted in recruiting appropriate diverse providers here at Penn State Health.

Dr. Passley-Clarke’s extensive experiences in health care organizations and interpersonal interactions bring a wealth of knowledge and viewpoints that promote equal opportunity, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging to the workplace. She is eager to get started in her new role. She plans to involve the PPI team in productive activities addressing complex topics, conveying a forward-thinking mission and vision and implementing creative solutions/initiatives to bring positive changes to our health system. She recognizes the need for respectful discussions about implicit/explicit biases rather than completing annual compliance training that checks a box. Her goal is to develop metrics to measure progress toward meaningful goals and lead the team to address and close the gap in health care disparities.

Advancing Mental Health Care for BIPOC Communities in Central Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is at the forefront of addressing mental health challenges in the Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities, with Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke leading significant initiatives. With over 25 years in mental health, Dr. Passley-Clarke brings a wealth of experience and insight to her work for the central Pennsylvania community and the people PPI serves.

“Our patient population extends far and wide. We have clients in Dauphin, Cumberland, Columbia, York, Lebanon and Perry counties,” said Passley-Clarke when discussing the wide range of people served by PPI. “Through our telehealth services, we have people from different places across Pennsylvania.”

Passley-Clarke’s role at PPI includes managing advanced practice providers in psychiatry and behavioral health, providing care for adult mental health clients and advocating for diversity, inclusion and equity within the organization. Her dedication to cultural competency in health care is evident, emphasizing the therapeutic value of patients finding culturally similar providers while acknowledging that effective care often transcends ethnicity.

Addressing Unique Challenges and Health Care Disparities

In a recent interview, Dr. Passley-Clarke highlighted the unique challenges facing the BIPOC communities such as communication barriers, language and cultural differences, generational trauma and navigating of the health care system. She discussed the importance of inclusivity in treatment and the need for providers to be aware of biases and microaggressions that could make patients feel undervalued.

From her clinical experience, Passley-Clarke highlighted the benefits of being made aware of the concerns facing the BIPOC community and working with a proactive mental health provider: “You have increased therapeutic value when you’re able to find a provider who is culturally similar to you.”

Based on data provided by the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness (52.9 million people in 2020). While people of color (POC) have rates of mental health disorders similar to Whites, these disorders are more likely to last longer and result in more significant disability for POC. Most mental illness goes untreated, especially in BIPOC communities. Fifty-two percent of Whites with acute mental illness received mental health services in 2020, compared to 37.1% of Blacks and 35% of Hispanics.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, the following factors can impact the ability of individuals from various ethnic, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds to access mental health treatment:

Insufficient or absence of health insurance coverage
Greater prevalence of stigma associated with mental illness within minority communities
Limited representation of diverse ethnicities and races among mental health care professionals
A shortage of mental health care providers who are culturally sensitive and competent
Challenges arising from language differences
A general mistrust toward the health care system.

PPI addresses these challenges through various means, including hiring diverse staff and offering specialized services and programs. These efforts reflect a commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of the BIPOC communities in central Pennsylvania.

When pairing providers with clients, Passley-Clarke advises looking at their experiences and their understanding of the experiences shared with new clients. In her work at PPI, she has observed this additional level of care resonating with patients, “You want to make sure that that client knows that you are culturally aware.”

Holistic and Comprehensive Care Approach

PPI’s holistic approach addresses mental health and other aspects of patients’ lives that could impact their well-being. She mentioned the role of community health workers like Cristel Woodcock, who assists BIPOC individuals in navigating health care, and the availability of mental health support groups open to all community members.

Moreover, PPI tackles socioeconomic factors by offering financial assistance programs and employing resource coordinators to help with housing, language barriers and access to specialized services. The institute’s commitment to recovery-oriented care involves the patient at every stage of their treatment, ensuring they feel valued and heard.

“As a Penn State enterprise, we can look at care beyond what we have at PPI. If our patients need more specific or specialized services, we can access it from entities as the client’s need dictates.” Stressing the importance of the relationship between providers and patients, Passley-Clarke said, “Sometimes that just means picking up the phone and being their advocate” and securing the resources they need to improve their mental health.

Empowering Patients and Embracing Community

Dr. Passley-Clarke advised BIPOC individuals who are hesitant about seeking mental health treatment to reach out and seek support, emphasizing the importance of taking that first step toward mental health stability. PPI’s efforts in staff education and training, diverse program offerings and patient-specific care demonstrate a deep commitment to serving and empowering the BIPOC communities.

Advising on the first step, Passley-Clarke emphasized, “Reach out to someone. It doesn’t matter who that person is. But reaching out is important.”

With a focus on inclusivity, representation and comprehensive care, PPI and Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke play a critical role in advancing mental health care for BIPOC communities in central Pennsylvania. Their dedication to evolving and meeting the changing needs of the region’s diverse community sets a benchmark in behavioral health services.

If you need help, please call the PPI Admissions Department at 717-782-6493 or 866-746-2496. The Admissions Department is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy at PPI

In the heart of central Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is leading a transformative approach to mental health through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This program is not just therapy but a beacon of hope for those battling intense emotional struggles. In an interview with Shana Rivera, Clinical Supervisor of DBT at PPI, the importance of this program to the residents of the Harrisburg area was explained.

The Essence of DBT

Dialectical behavior therapy, as Rivera explains, is rooted in the concept that two opposites can exist simultaneously, and by finding synthesis in them, practitioners can help clients regulate their emotions more effectively and improve their quality of life. Initially developed by Marsha Lineman while researching treatments for chronic suicidality and non-suicidal self-injury, DBT at PPI has evolved into a lifeline for those grappling with various mental health challenges. It combines the rigors of behavioral modification with the validation and reflection of the humanistic approach, offering a unique blend of acceptance and change.

“With DBT, we modify behavior,” said Rivera, “by teaching our clients skills for balancing reason and emotion and cultivating effective discernment and self-awareness. The ultimate goal is to help them live their lives more effectively.”

The DBT Program at PPI

Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute’s DBT program distinguishes itself in central Pennsylvania. It’s a meticulously structured 15-week intensive outpatient program, including individual therapy sessions, group skills training, weekly consultation team meeting, and a novel feature – an ‘on-call’ coaching service available every day from 8 a.m. to midnight.

“The core principles behind the program, the idea of DBT as an evidence-based practice, includes skills training in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness,” said Rivera.

The treatment goals for clients in DBT include the development of:

Interpersonal and communication skills
The ability to tolerate distress
The ability to understand, name and regulate emotions
Self-awareness

The Challenge and Commitment

Embracing this unique treatment option is a journey that demands commitment. Rivera emphasizes the importance of patient dedication, stating that the therapy’s effectiveness hinges on active participation and the willingness to embrace change. The program’s rigorous nature includes daily diary card keeping, regular skill application and a steadfast commitment to attending sessions.

“It’s going to require that you fill out a diary card every single day,” said Rivera, concerning the commitment required to complete the DBT program at PPI. “That you are trying to identify your emotions daily. That you are doing homework 98% of the time. The homework is not like writing essays. It is you going home, practicing applying the skill in your natural environment and then returning so we can troubleshoot its effectiveness.”

Dialectical behavior therapy classes at PPI are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays in the morning from 9 a.m.-Noon or in the afternoon from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Individual sessions are offered one time per week for 60 minutes and coaching calls are available to individuals who are enrolled in any of PPI’s DBT programs outside of business hours.

Transformative Impact

Rivera shares heartening success stories, like a patient who overcame severe suicidal tendencies to find a renewed zest for life, eventually returning to professional work and exploring her passion for art. These stories are testaments to DBT’s transformative power, underscoring its efficacy in not just managing mental illness but enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Rivera recounts, “She developed not just an increased insight, knowing what triggers her, but she was also able to work through and develop skills to build a productive life. She ended up being able to return to work full-time and obtain a certification in peer support to share her lived experience of healing with others.”

DBT’s Role in the Community

DBT at PPI is more than a treatment; it’s a community service. It offers a comprehensive pathway for those dealing with emotional dysregulation and mental health disorders, providing them with tools for a better life. The program’s inclusivity and adaptability make it a crucial resource for central Pennsylvania residents seeking mental wellness.

Rivera emphasizes, “DBT can benefit anyone. Don’t question it. Reach out. We will help triage anyone who is thinking of reaching out for help, we can guide you to the appropriate treatment.”

For an in-depth discussion about how DBT can help you reach your goals, call 717-782-6515.

A Vision for the Future

As DBT evolves at PPI, Rivera envisions expanding services to encompass individualized trauma therapy and a more robust aftercare support system. This vision aligns with PPI’s commitment to holistic care, recognizing the diverse needs of its community.

At PPI, Dialectical Behavior Therapy is more than a clinical program; it’s a journey toward self-awareness, emotional resilience and personal growth. As Rivera and the team continue to break new ground, they are not just treating conditions but changing lives, one session at a time, in central Pennsylvania.

Who does the DBT program at PPI treat?

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a form of therapy that was developed for individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or individuals who have strong traits of this diagnosis. DBT has also been utilized to treat individuals with drug and alcohol addictions, eating disorders and for pain management. Individuals can attend the DBT program if they are at least 18 years old and are not currently attending high school. Individuals may attend college or work while attending the program; however, full-time employment and a full college course are not recommended while attending the program, as it is intensive.

Contact the admissions department at 717-782-6493 to learn more.

Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service

Honoring Legacy through Action

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a celebration of Dr. King’s life and legacy. It’s a day to honor his vision of freedom, justice, equality and a better future for all through active service. On a summer day in 1963, Dr. King shared his dream of a nation where justice, freedom, peace and opportunity prevail, standing against oppression, violence and poverty.

Despite facing numerous challenges, his commitment to nonviolent protest and civil disobedience led to significant changes in our society.

Today, the MLK Day of Service embodies this spirit, encouraging everyone to contribute to their communities. It’s the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, reflecting that active citizenship is vital to community improvement. By participating in service projects, we honor Dr. King’s legacy, working toward a society where respect and equality are not just ideals but realities for all, regardless of race, ability, religion or background.

Nurse Testimonial: Jeff Kahler

Jeff has been with PPI since July 2015. He spent years in customer service/quality control while managing a carpet cleaning company in Arizona. Jeff states, “I believe customer service translates very well to nursing. Foundationally, we must be respectful of our patients, even when they are going through a difficult stretch. Try to provide a sense of calm in the middle of everything going on. I like to give my team members a sense that we will get through this moment.”

Jeff recommends taking time to catch your breath. Take a walk-off unit for a break. Be mindful and remember we are all one chemical imbalance or a bad moment away from being a patient at PPI. Talk to your team. Ask any and every question.

My biggest inspiration for working at PPI is the relationship I have with other staff members, Paul and Nikki (therapists). The professional way they help the locums get acclimated quickly when they join PPI. And how they help turn a patient in complete “failure to thrive” mode, at times catatonic, and return them to their life and family. I am proud to be part of a team that quickly understands where a patient may be struggling in the progress of their treatment. We all work together when the unit acuity triggers past trauma in staff. I am thankful to Kim, for somehow managing the “challenges” we deal with and still finding time to sit down with staff and help them process a difficult situation. In 2024, Jeff will be retiring to work part-time in Mobile Psych Nursing.

I’m not social. I’m not openly conversational. I’m a private person. I have difficulty speaking in front of others; since becoming a nurse in 2015, I’ve had to push myself beyond those self-imposed barriers. I’m thankful that I was inspired to go back to school at 50 to become a RN. And that when a patient is upset and yelling (at staff or me), I’m thankful and remain mindful that it’s almost never about us/me. It’s about their loss of control, a place in life, losing their phone, their bed, immediate contact with family, and their ability to come and go. This place, our place here, we need to remember as caregivers, it’s not about us. It’s about them.

I leave you with these words: “How can I help you?”

Nurse Testimonial: Mary Crist

Mary has worked at PPI for 12 years as a medication and treatment nurse. Mary explains she wanted to be a nurse since she was six years old and be able to take care of people. Mary has a cousin who is a nurse anesthetist, and always enjoyed listening to her stories. Mary states, “In 7th and 8th grade, I was a hospital volunteer at Holy Spirit Hospital. And for some reason, I always found it fascinating to read the medical books in our house.”

For someone starting a nursing career at PPI, Mary believes that we all bring something different to the table because of where we are in our lives. Our experiences and education are valuable in dealing with the different types of patients we encounter. “Fortunately, through the years at PPI, I have been very blessed to have had some excellent mentors, although many no longer work here. I asked a lot of questions in the beginning, and I’m sure I drove some of them crazy, but they were very patient and kind. I’m still learning every day and appreciate all my co-workers who share their knowledge and experiences.

Coming from mostly med-surg, with some long-term care and acute rehab nursing, being a psychiatric nurse was very different, almost like learning another language. It really helped me learn about another type of illness. I always had the mindset of medical issues and did not give much thought to mental illness. It brought me full circle to understand the person as a whole.”