News, Events & Press

What a great day for a picnic!

"The TYP Picnic and BBQ idea came about as we were trying to figure out what we could do to celebrate the 4^th of July as a program," said Ajah Homer, Recovery Specialist for the Transitional Youth Program at CMHA.

 TYP staff thought the event would be a great way to build rapport with clients as well as get them involved in choosing program activities that could be enjoyed by all. Once word got around about the event,  the TYP Team invited staff from other programs to be part of the event.

"We were very happy to be able to speak with our clients about the event and get their full input," explained Ajah. "They selected what food they wanted to have served, what games and activities they'd be interested in playing, and really got to make this event what they wanted it to be."

CMHA staff members, from TYP and other programs, contributed food and supplies for the BBQ to really make it a special event. Residential Monitor Travone Franklin even made a surprise appearance with his Ice Cream Dream truck!

"Everyone had a great time! We saw many of our clients open up and mingle with one another, and everyone left with a smile on their face. Overall, with it being such a success, we've decided to repeat this event annually!"

Thank you to everyone who participated and made the event possible, our clients greatly appreciate you!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR JUNE 2022 SPOTLIGHT RECIPIENTS!

Michele Santos & Helen St. Germain, Clinicians

An important part of our work is building connections in the communities we serve. It is clear that Helen St. Germain and Michele Santos have maintained strong relationships with Northwest region providers despite the changes we've made this past year, as the Nourish & Nurture Food Distribution they organized for the Torrington community was a great success! Thank you Michele & Helen for your years of dedication and unwavering passion for the people we serve! 

Donna Woodard, Clinician for YAS

Donna Woodard is the primary clinician for Young Adult clients in CMHA's Ability Beyond group homes, and she is what we would consider the heart of our intensives programs. The amount of care and compassion she shows her clients on a daily basis is remarkable and she has gone above and beyond in assisting with client transitions from program to program. Thank you, Donna - your strength and kindness is inspiring and so valued throughout the YA programs!

Niralee Patel, Clinician

Niralee Patel is a pillar of the CT Stay Strong (YAS OP) team. Since piloting the CTSS program, Niralee has been an integral part of the team! Her strong clinical sense, professional composure, and inherent leadership skills have helped her step up and fill multiple roles at times when the program was short staffed. Thank you, Niralee - your commitment and ability to advocate for and empower clients is an invaluable asset to the intensive programs!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MAY 2022 SPOTLIGHT RECIPIENTS!

Amanda Kendrick, Recovery Specialist

Meeting our clients 'where they're at' means something different for every individual that comes through our doors. Amanda goes above and beyond for her clients, addressing their unique, individual needs however she can in order to set them up for success on their path to Recovery. Amanda is always doing the best she can for our clients, earning herself the title "warrior" from her nominator, because she's always fighting to help our clients. Thank you, Amanda!

Patricia Carmichael, Rehabilitation Counselor

Known and celebrated by clients and staff for her wonderful cooking, 'Miss Pat' should also be celebrated for her role in "A Night to Remember", the first-ever Social Club Spring Gala! A Social Club staff member of almost 9 years, Pat knew many clients had never been to Prom, and advocated for them to have that special experience. From all the Team Time members and staff: Thank you, Miss Pat for dreaming!

Rob Skrzypek, Recovery Specialist

'Doing whatever it takes' is a common phrase at CMHA, and very often what it takes is a great team - regardless of the program. IMPACT team member Rob has been putting in a lot of extra effort and time to help two clients from other programs who are monolingual Polish-Speaking. He's spent a great deal of time with each to help make sure their needs are met. For all you do to help our clients: Thank you Rob!