For over 75 years, Greater Mental Health of New York has been providing services, resources, and educational opportunities so that individuals and families within our community can build resilience on their journeys to recovery. Below, meet community members who recently engaged in Greater Mental Health services and learn about the positive impact our work has had on their paths.
Bryan*, a young man with a dual diagnosis, initially felt uncertain at our Sterling Community Center. He attended sporadically, and rarely interacted with peers or staff. During one group session, Bryan shared thoughts of suicidal ideation. When the facilitator asked him to speak one-on-one after the group ended, Bryan opened up more. We helped Bryan develop a detailed safety plan, which he credits for improving his day-to-day life. With the support of his Recovery Specialist and fellow participants, he now feels more comfortable sharing his struggles and hopes. Bryan increased his attendance at Sterling significantly until he began college last fall. Even as his classes takes up much of his time, he continues to work with his Recovery Specialist and keep his connections thriving through various groups.
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In an inpatient psychiatric hospital, Henry* met a Greater Mental Health Peer Specialist while preparing to transition back to the shelter system. Facing challenges due to a lengthy history of incarceration and a "high-risk" label, he hesitated to engage formally with our Intensive and Sustained Engagement Team (INSET). However, he asked the Peer Specialist to attend court hearings with him. After two months of consistent support, Henry officially joined the program. A year later, he continues to meet his Peer Specialist weekly, focused on avoiding incarceration and creating a positive future. They attend court together and work on expunging Henry's records for improved housing access.
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After a decline in her physical mobility left Diane* unable to continue working in her field, she connected with our Employment Services to reevaluate her career goals. An Employment Specialist, recognizing her strong passion for supporting others and her personal experiences with mental health issues, suggested a career as a Peer Specialist as a fulfilling next chapter. When an unexpected, significant health challenge required her to attend a job interview in a wheelchair, her Employment Specialist and Care Manager worked together to purchase several new interview-ready outfits for her to wear. Diane’s commitment to her future as a Peer Specialist remains unwavering. Even as additional medical problems arise, she continues her training and certification work.
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