Through holistic approaches to counseling and training, Sentara’s partners provide critical pipelines to address future needs.
When it comes to behavioral health, we often think and speak of the physical and emotional barriers to access. But what if we shifted our focus to what can be done to help open someone up to the possibility of seeking help?
For more than 50 years, the Peninsula Pastoral Counseling Center (PPCC), located in Newport News, Virginia, has used faith and spirituality as that open door — regardless of race or whether an individual is affiliated with any particular denomination.
“Whether they’re Jewish, Muslim, Christian, or spiritual but not religious, we recognize the important role faith and spirituality play for people and focus on the whole person — mind, body, and spirit,” says the Rev. Rebecca E. Glass, M.Div., M.Ed., PPCC’s executive director.
“The residency offers additional clinical instruction and consultation that otherwise would be quite expensive. The program has also introduced me to resources and networks that can benefit my clients, which is invaluable,” says Rev. Chesla T. Nickelson, M.Div., MAMFT, a current resident.
PPCC works with individuals like Rev. Nickelson regardless of their ability to pay. In fact, according to Glass, nearly a quarter of those seeking support from PPCC are uninsured or underinsured, which is why supplemental funding through community partners like Sentara is so critical to providing access to services for those who may otherwise not have access.
The same holds true for individuals, like Rev. Nickelson, who are pursuing careers as providers, Glass adds. PPCC also commits to training students in the field, particularly students of color. With Sentara’s funding, Glass says, PPCC will be able to take on additional residents who can earn the 200 hours of supervised sessions and 2,000 hours of face-to-face clinical experience needed for licensure.
Building Capacity
Training behavioral health practitioners with the latest resources, programs, and tools is crucial for providing up-to-date and effective care, while also helping to mitigate burnout and address workforce shortages in the field. This ongoing education maintains a robust pipeline of skilled professionals essential for tackling the evolving challenges in mental health care.
Virginia Health Care Foundation
Richmond, Virginia
With our support, the Virginia Health Care Foundation has launched the “Brighter Days Ahead” initiative. This initiative will expand its Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Program, increase school-based children’s mental health services, and provide support for mental health providers themselves to overcome burnout and other challenges that cause many to leave the field.
PRS Inc.
Oakton, Virginia
Through our collaboration, PRS Inc. is set to launch an internship program, enhancing its team with vital roles focused on behavioral health services, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention. This initiative is designed to fortify the organization’s mission of fostering hope, wellness, and community integration. PRS Inc.’s wide range of programs enhances the lives of individuals grappling with mental health challenges by promoting recovery and independence.
The Confess Project of the Southeast
Richmond, Virginia
We partner with The Confess Project of the Southeast to improve mental health outcomes in Black communities by training barbers as mental health advocates. This unique program empowers barbers to serve as trusted confidants and first responders, offering support and resources to those without access to traditional mental health services.
