McKean County was well-represented at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s annual conference (NATCON) held in Philadelphia this year.

NATCON is the largest conference offered for those working in the mental health and substance use field with over 6,000 participants from all 50 states and other countries. Five staff members from The Guidance Center attended the conference, three of whom also served as breakout session speakers. Dr. Denise Bean, executive director, Colleen M. Chahal, CCBHC project director, and Claudette Johnson, director of wellness services, were selected out of a pool of more than 900 applicants to participate on a panel addressing ways to facilitate and strengthen collaboration in rural areas.

Chahal noted, “There are certainly many challenges we face in rural settings but there can also be significant advantages to living and working in a smaller community. Our goal with this presentation was to inspire others to recognize those benefits and to feel proud of belonging to a community where we know our neighbors and where people are willing to work together to make things better for everyone.”

Johnson elaborated, stating, “Collaboration in rural communities isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. By working together, we bridge gaps and amplify impact while strengthening our community ties.”

Partnering with Joan King from the National Council along with representatives from two New York rural providers, The Guidance Center staff were able to share their experiences as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic and offer suggestions for those struggling with access to services in rural geographies. TGC staff highlighted their collaboration with local law enforcement, schools, county administration, primary care practices and other service organizations.

For more information about The Guidance Center or to make a referral, Visit the website at guidancecenter.net or call (814) 362-6535