Insight Into a Widespread, But Hidden Battle

Despite the deeply human side of Tri-County Mental Health Services, the story is often told in clinical terms that lack a human dimension.

Barb Swan, a Tri-County client for nearly six years, recently helped fill that gap during a talk with the Board of Directors. Her story is both dramatic and representative of many of those who seek help from Tri-County Mental Health Services.

“It was a real eye-opener for the board,” CEO Tom Cranshaw explained. “So often the messages are abstract, with clinical programs like anger management. To have someone who lives these programs is tremendously valuable.”

Life-Changing Issue

For Barb, the story is part of efforts to build her life. A former medical assistant, she had faced some problems earlier in life, including sexual abuse, but was unprepared when six years ago she faced severe depression, panic attacks and a “loss of self” that is not uncommon among abuse victims.

“I had been abused but I just blocked it,” she recalls today. “Then it just became overwhelming.”

As often happens, she lost her job and turned to pharmaceuticals to help her cope. Although the drugs were legal, her “self-medication” became just another problem.

But after a year, she began several steps that have started to turn her life around. She began attending 12-Step meetings and, through Tri-County, accesses several programs that are helping her build her life.

Barb tells her story with an unblinking honesty and clarity. She believes that one key to her progress has been the comprehensive effort, not just a single program.

“It all contributes. You need all of them or none will work.”

New Therapy Helps

One of the most complex is a technique called dialectical behavioral therapy. Although it includes elements of traditional “talk therapy,” it also involves elements that range from meditation on experiences, to promoting an almost old-fashioned focus on the future.

“That helped me a lot with my resentments,” she explained. “I felt like a weight had been lifted.”

Her group therapy is equally diverse. It involves little of the stereotypical group dialogue, but more self-analysis and practical living skills.

Barb also attends Tri-County’s day program four times weekly, participating in everything from community volunteering to the consumer government, where she has been elected vice president.

Two of her favorite efforts are also some of the most demanding. Her caseworker at Tri-County is a key to keeping her on target. Barb has made it clear that she must be questioned if she falls into old habits or becomes evasive. “I told her the question she should always finish with is ‘Are you telling me everything that you should be?’” Barb says, a wry smile on her lips. “I wanted to make sure she keeps me on track.”

Another key is outside of Tri-County but relates directly: The 12-Step Program is good,” Barb noted. “Some of the steps are scary, but it works.” She also utilized Tri-County’s co-occurring program for those facing substance abuse and various mental disorders. It was the first co-occurring program in Missouri to be designated by the Department of Mental Health.

Not an Ending, but Happy

All of this appears to be working. Barb has completed training for medical insurance coding and plans to start soon looking for a job. She is also emphatic in her credit to Tri-County for her success. “You were there when I was at my lowest and needed help,” she said. “It was like you gave me a big hug. You’ve just been there the whole time.”

Still, it is Barb herself who is making the obvious progress. “All of these programs help,” she concluded. “But it’s still my responsibility. I’ve got to do what’s suggested or it’s not going to work.”

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Tri-County Mental Health Services, 3100 NE 83rd St., Suite 1001, Kansas City, MO 64119-9998
Telephone: (816) 468-0400 Fax: (816) 468-6635 • 24-Hour Emergency Service Crisis Line 1-888-279-8188
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