CMH

CMHA-CEI Promoting Recovery Stories on Social Media During National Recovery Month

CMHA-CEI Promoting Recovery Stories on Social Media During National Recovery Month

Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) will be highlighting several recovery stories of individuals during the month of September on the CMHA-CEI Facebook page. Three of the four individuals are participating in the 12-week substance use treatment program at the House of Commons (HOC). The fourth individual is a Certified Recovery Coach, who currently works for CMHA-CEI.

The House of the Commons (HOC) has been a respected leader in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment field for more than 48 years. The program helps adult men change their lives by providing the requisite tools for establishing and maintaining a drug free and crime free lifestyle. HOC works to create a co-occurring capable system that is welcoming, person-centered, recovery oriented, culturally competent and trauma informed. The courses offered provides individuals with the tools to be successful when they leave the facility and to manage the stresses of the outside world. In some cases, those tools are lost during their road in recovery.

“When it comes to recovery, ALL. EVERY. ALWAYS. NEVER. ALWAYS. EVERY. ALL. The idea came to me one day during a session with a client,” explained Quenton Lerma, House of Commons Program Coordinator, Integrated Treatment & Recovery Services. “We were talking about concrete thinking and I told him things rarely fall into the “All” category. We should not itemize people talking about “every” person, “everyone” knows, “every” time I try, and things will not “always” be that way, nor do they “always” happen. The client said, “I like that man! You should write that down. With no paper in hand, I wrote it on the office wall. “ALL. EVERY. ALWAYS. NEVER. ALWAYS. EVERY. ALL. It became a way of thinking about recovery, using these types of words, unconsciously using words that allow no variables, are limiting for those in recovery.”

CMHA-CEI will be highlighting four individuals who felt it was important to tell their story, and to hopefully help others. All of the individuals were open to sharing their story of substance use to complete strangers in order to help raise awareness of the SUD and mental health treatment and recovery options that are available. For many that were interviewed, HOC was their last option before being sentenced to prison, or to possibly overdosing on the streets. Painful memories were relived, but hope and perseverance is obvious when reading these stories.

If you see changes in someone in your life, it could be a sign they’re struggling with their behavioral health. Let them know that you’re there for them by sharing a behavioral health screening that they can take anonymously from their device. To utilize the Behavioral Health Screening Tool, please visit: https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/CEI

If you or someone you know is suffering from a behavioral or SUD crisis, please call our ACCESS line at 517-346-8318 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org

Visit the CMHA-CEI Facebook Page to read the highlighted stories here: https://www.facebook.com/ceicmh

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

###

CMHA-CEI Holding Weekly Hiring Fairs for Residential Technician Positions

CMHA-CEI Holding Weekly Hiring Fairs for Residential Technician Positions

July 13, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is holding a weekly hiring fair every Tuesday from 1:00PM to 3:00PM in the main lobby, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI 48910. CMHA-CEI is looking to hire for multiple Residential Technician positions for Adult Mental Health Services, and the weekly hiring fairs will be ongoing until all positions are filled.

A current Residential Technician at CMHA-CEI thought that working as a Residential Technician would be a typical summer job, but instead turned into a rewarding lifelong experience. “As a Residential Technician, we grow and enrich lives through diverse opportunities of connection. Through this type of work, we encounter opportunities that help shape our look on life for the better. It is a great feeling knowing that you are going to wake up every morning and have an opportunity to positively impact someone’s life. I feel as though my life has been positively impacted by the relationships that I have built over the years, and that I continue to help others with living their best life every day.”

The ideal candidate will have an interest in assisting individuals with personal care and treatment, and provides support in self-identified goals developed to maximize an individual’s full potential in a residential setting.Various job duties include: support mental illness symptoms management, training and assisting residents in daily living skills such as medication management; personal care; interpersonal communication skills; cleaning; meal preparation and laundry; de-escalations skills; maintaining required documentation; and assisting residents in participation in community activities. Attends mandatory staff meetings and in-service training sessions.

The Residential Technician positions have a flexible schedule, 0—19 hours per week. These positions are great for students or those looking for supplemental jobs. Positions have the ability to grow into part-time and full-time opportunities that include increase of salary and benefits.

To apply for a Residential Technician position, all candidates must have a valid driver’s license, a GED or high school diploma, and must be able to pass a background check.

For more information about the Residential Technician weekly hiring fairs, please visit Eventbrite by clicking here: Eventbrite.com

For more information about current job postings, please visit www.ceicmh.org

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

###

CMHA-CEI Holding Weekly Hiring Fairs for Residential Technician Positions from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the main lobby of 812 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI

June 03, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is holding a weekly hiring fair every Thursday from 12:00PM to 4:00PM in the main lobby, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI 48910. CMHA-CEI is looking to hire for multiple Residential Technician positions, and the weekly hiring fairs will be ongoing until all positions are filled.

A current Residential Technician at CMHA-CEI thought that working as a Residential Technician would be a typical summer job, but instead turned into a rewarding lifelong experience. “As a Residential Technician, we grow and enrich lives through diverse opportunities of connection. Through this type of work, we encounter opportunities that help shape our look on life for the better. It is a great feeling knowing that you are going to wake up every morning and have an opportunity to positively impact someone’s life. I feel as though my life has been positively impacted by the relationships that I have built over the years, and that I continue to help others with living their best life every day.”

The ideal candidate will have an interest for supporting individuals in self-identified goals developed to maximize an individual’s full potential and will provide support to that individual in a residential setting. Various job duties include assisting in the provision of care, training, and supervision to the extent determined by each individual's treatment plan. The candidate must be willing to be flexible, and to be motivated to collaborate and build relationships in the community. The candidate will also be responsible for carrying out all activities of the program/sub-unit in such a manner that fulfills CMHA’s mission, policies and procedures.

The Residential Technician positions have a flexible schedule, 0—19 hours per week. These positions are great for students or those looking for supplemental jobs. Positions have the ability to grow into part-time and full-time opportunities that include increase of salary and benefits.

To apply for a Residential Technician position, all candidates must have a valid driver’s license, a GED or high school diploma, and must be able to pass a background check.

For more information about the Residential Technician weekly hiring fairs, please visit Eventbrite by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3wShLFj

For more information about current job postings, please visit www.ceicmh.org

About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.

CMHA-CEI Partners with WILX to Promote Services

February 22, 2022

Don’t be surprised to see us on your television!  We are excited to share these short clips produced by WILX to help promote CMHA-CEI services in the tri-county area.  Please watch and share.

CMHA-CEI Signs and Symptoms of Behavioral Health Problems

CMHA-CEI Three Steps to Getting Behavioral Health Help

Lansing Couple Share Story of Hope and Recovery from Mental Illness

August 20, 2020

PRESS RELEASE

LANSING – Lansing resident Jerri Nicole Wright shared her story with StoryCorps earlier this year with her husband, Thomas Wright. Their story was recorded at The Fledge in Lansing as a part of a Michigan History Museum project. The couple discusses many experiences throughout their lives, including their experiences with mental illnesses. “We’d like the theme of the [story] to be how our love has helped us recover from a mental illness,” says Thomas.

They begin their story by sharing how they met and began their relationship around 30 years ago in the Greater Lansing area. They also share about their early experiences in recovery from a substance use disorder and the challenges that came with that time in their lives, including facing stigma and judgement from others.

“…it’s hard enough to be recovering from a mental illness, but to be recovering from alcoholism at the same time, it was some difficult times for you and I,” says Tom. Jerri Nicole replies, “I agree, it was very, very difficult. There’s just a lot of stigma around mental illness, there’s stigma around alcoholism.”

Though they are currently retired, the couple also discuss their former careers. Thomas worked at Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) for 31 years as a job coach who worked with adults with developmental disabilities, and Jerri Nicole spent 15 years working in Brody Dining Hall at Michigan State University. In addition to her work at MSU, Jerri Nicole has been an advocate for individuals with mental illnesses for the past 10 years, and currently serves on the Recipient Rights Committee at CMHA-CEI.

Jerri Nicole states, “It’s our job, as [individuals] recovering from mental illnesses, to reach out to others to let them know that there is hope, there is possibility, there is a chance of recovery.”

To listen to the story in full, visit: https://archive.storycorps.org/interviews/jerri-nicole-wright-and-thomas-wright/.

CMHA-CEI Announces Distinguished Service Award Recipient, Releases New Video and 2019 Annual Report to Community

August 6, 2020

PRESS RELEASE

LANSING – Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is pleased to announce the release of their 2019 annual report and a new video, as well as honor the recipient of this year’s Distinguished Service Award – McLaren Greater Lansing of Michigan.

"McLaren is proud to be able to work hand-in-hand with Community Mental Health to provide efficient access to mental health care," said Deborah Leblanc, McLaren Greater Lansing Chief Nursing Officer. "Since 2017 our relationship has linked countless people to services that help them live happier, healthier lives through finding care.”

This release was originally planned for CMHA-CEI’s annual Community Breakfast event, which was cancelled for this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. CMHA-CEI extends their thanks to the exhibitors and sponsors of this year’s Community Breakfast, adding that they look forward to their continued partnership at next year’s event.

Additionally slated for release at the Community Breakfast event was a new video highlighting Adult Mental Health Services at CMHA-CEI, as well as CMHA-CEI’s 2019 annual report.

The annual report captures the successes and challenges of the agency over the course of 2019. The full report is available for members of the community to view or download here; and the AMHS Program Overview video can be viewed at http://ceicmh.org/services/amhs.

The 2021 Community Breakfast event is scheduled for March 25, 2021 from 8:00 AM-11:30 AM. Those planning to attend can register here.  

CMHA-CEI Continues to Provide Behavioral Health Services During COVID-19

July 27, 2020

PRESS RELEASE

LANSING – The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) continues to serve and address the behavioral health needs of our community. In alignment with evolving state and county orders, adjustments are continually made to CMHA-CEI operations to facilitate more in-person visits for recipients who would most benefit from face-to-face service delivery, while continuing to provide telehealth services. Those in need of services should contact CMHA-CEI at 517-346-8318 to inquire about eligibility.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and Stay at Home order, CMHA-CEI has offered telehealth services as well as life-preserving in-person services, including 24/7 Crisis Services and Withdrawal Management Services.

At the end of May, CMHA-CEI’s Chief Executive Officer Sara Lurie released a COVID-19 Phased-In Recovery Plan, outlining a gradual approach to returning to full operations while maintaining a continued focus on protecting recipients and staff. “I have every confidence that we will be successful in gradually and safely increasing our in-person care to those individuals and families who are not currently well served by telehealth only options,” says Lurie.

The CMHA-CEI COVID-19 Phased-In Recovery Plan corresponds to the MI Safe Start Plan phases 3-5. The timelines for moving into each phase are flexible in response to federal or state mandates, as well as other health and safety best practices. Currently, CMHA-CEI is in phase two of their four-phase plan. COVID-19 prevention protocols, including staff, recipient, and visitor screenings, face coverings, staff training, and physical distancing (also known as social distancing) are being utilized in buildings to ensure that all precautions and mandates are followed.

CMHA-CEI remains dedicated to continuing to connect community members to essential behavioral health services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, and continues to operate by the message shared in the agency tagline, ”Together We Can.” Latest updates about services and resources can be found at www.ceicmh.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ceicmh.

CMHA-CEI Awarded 4 Million Dollars to Continue Expanded Services

May 21, 2020

PRESS RELEASE

LANSING – Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is one of 18 behavioral health system recipients of a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grant. Of the $54 million awarded, $4 million is earmarked for CMHA-CEI. This funding is made possible by the Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Expansion Act sponsored by Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), enhanced by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

As a prior recipient of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Expansion Grant, CMHA-CEI added and strengthened programs that focus on recovery, wellness, trauma-informed care, and physical-behavioral health care integration. CMHA-CEI will use this funding to continue these expanded services.

“As a CCBHC Expansion Grantee, we have worked hard to expand access to comprehensive behavioral health services. The need is great in our communities, and this funding bolsters our ability to provide services for community members who experience barriers to specialty behavioral health care- including those with commercial health insurance,” says Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer of CMHA-CEI. “We are extremely grateful to Senator Debbie Stabenow for her leadership, advocacy and legislative work to support and expand access to behavioral health services here in Michigan and across the U.S.”

According to the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, of the 1.76 million Michiganders experiencing a mental illness, only about 62 percent receive treatment. Only 20 percent of people in need of substance use disorder treatment receive such care. Preliminary reports suggest that the impact of COVID-19 on behavioral health care needs will be significant, further increasing the need for expanded access to mental health and substance use disorder services.

CMHA-CEI remains dedicated to continuing to connect community members to essential behavioral health services throughout this challenging time and beyond, and continues to operate by the message shared in the agency tagline, ‘Together We Can.” Latest updates about services and resources can be found at www.ceicmh.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ceicmh.

CMHA-CEI COVID-19 Support Line Proves Valued Resource for Community

May 5, 2020
PRESS RELEASE

LANSING - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) has received a consistent volume of calls since unveiling their newest resource – a community COVID-19 Support Line.

The support line was established in response to the heightened need for additional mental health support for struggling community members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals calling into the support line include families, spouses, and friends who are struggling, as well as front line workers.

Christian McCaslin, Crisis Services Coordinator at CMHA-CEI, notes that “These are unprecedented times in which the stress of being at home, isolated, attempting to keep children occupied who cannot hang out with friends has led to a higher than usual amount of anxiety, fear, and depression. This resource provides support, guidance, encouragement, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy to help people over the hump.” McCaslin also recognizes that “There is no play book on how to cope and most people don’t have the tools in the box to use to help them during this time. We are here to help them, teach them, listen to them, and encourage them while monitoring their needs.”

The COVID-19 Support Line is available for any residents of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties looking to speak with a mental health professional about issues related to COVID-19. The support line is available Monday - Friday from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, at (517) 237-7100. Individuals do not have to be receiving services at CMHA-CEI, or have a mental health diagnosis of any kind, to access the support line.

CMHA-CEI remains dedicated to continuing to connect community members to essential behavioral health services throughout this challenging time and beyond, and continues to operate by the message shared in the agency tagline, ‘Together We Can.” Latest updates about services and resources can be found at www.ceicmh.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ceicmh.

CMHA-CEI Recommendations for Coping with Stress - Including Free Behavioral Health Screening

April 23, 2020
PRESS RELEASE

LANSING - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) offers recommendations for coping with stress and isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a free and confidential online behavioral health screening.

While necessary for public health and safety, many of the current restrictions associated with social distancing, quarantine, and isolation can also cause emotional distress. The American Psychological Association notes that common responses to social restrictions can include fear, anxiety, depression, boredom, anger, frustration, and irritability.

A behavioral health screening is a simple way to check in with oneself during stressful or emotionally challenging times, and it is the quickest way to determine if it would be helpful to connect with a behavioral health professional. Free, confidential behavioral health screenings are available from CMHA-CEI on their website at https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/cei. These screenings are available on-line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All responses are completely anonymous, and results, recommendations, and key resources are provided immediately following the brief questionnaire.

Recommendations to help mitigate feelings of stress and discomfort include:

1. Monitoring for signs of stress.  Everyone responds differently to stressful situations. Common signs of stress can include trouble sleeping or eating, difficulty concentrating, increased fear or worrying, irritability, crying, and increased substance use.  Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham residents experiencing stress related to COVID-19 are invited to call the CMHA-CEI COVID-19 Support Line to speak with a mental health professional. The support line is being operated Monday-Friday from 8:30AM-4:30PM and can be reached at (517) 237-7100. Individuals do not have to be receiving services at CMHA-CEI, or have a mental health diagnosis of any kind, to access the support line.

2. Staying physically healthy.  Even while staying at home, maintaining physical health is an important part of managing stress. It’s important to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Go outside for walks and to get fresh air, just make sure to give others 6 feet of space as you pass. Additionally, many exercise videos are available online for free.

3. Prioritizing rest and fun.  It’s important to carve out time for activities that are relaxing and fun. Spending time meditating or doing yoga can help to manage anxious feelings. Healthy amounts of distraction; like watching movies, playing a board game, learning a new skill like knitting or baking, or catching up on some reading is also helpful. Check in with friends and family virtually- try hosting a virtual movie night or a dinner party.

4. Staying informed, but set boundaries.  While it’s important to stay updated and informed as the pandemic progresses, too much exposure to bad news can wear on one’s mental health. It’s okay to ask others for a break from discussing the pandemic. Turn off the news and limit time on social media each day to take mental breaks.

CMHA-CEI remains dedicated to continuing to connect community members to essential behavioral health services throughout this challenging time and beyond, and continues to operate by the message shared in the agency tagline, ‘Together We Can.” Latest updates about services and resources can be found at www.ceicmh.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ceicmh.