with my mental health clients and substance abuse clients. It was an excellent experience.” She thoroughly enjoyed her time at EMAGES. “All the staff are great—Dr. Harris, whom I reported to for my master's degree, and Dr. Wash, who worked with the Ph.D. and junior college students.” She explains that the group counseling had eight to ten participants. When asked if there were difficulties, she said that, on the contrary, the clients would share with each other, encouraging each other’s recovery. Vanessa says, “ It was a cohesive group; they’d help each other, even call each other out. They’d keep each other going, and part of their healing process was knowing they were not alone— that most of the group had gone through the same thing. It was a great experience.” “The support they give you is phenomenal. Dr. Wash, Dr. Harris, Dr. Jean, and Mitzi— are great and very hands-on.” -Vanessa Dean She saw the change in the participants’ lives as they completed the program. “I was so proud of them as they graduated and went on with their lives and did well—clients who not only changed their own lives, but the lives of their families and society.” And though Vanessa has graduated, she still has a connection with EMAGES. “I stay in touch, and I volunteer my services whenever I can help out.” Vanessa has gone on to open her own business. “I have my own nonprofit called ‘Ruby and Mildred’s Behavioral Health Services and Center,’ named after my grandmothers. I provide Level 1 and Level 2 substance abuse
outpatient treatment.” And, naturally, if she has clients who need other services, she refers them to EMAGES. “ EMAGES is the perfect place to learn about your culture and different methodologies to work with the population in the sex offender, mental health, substance abuse, and anger management area.” “ The support they give you is phenomenal. Dr. Wash, Dr. Harris, Dr. Jean, and Mitzi—are great and very hands-on; they want to make sure you learn how to service African Americans in the community as well as other cultures. They are very diverse. So, anyone who wants an internship or wants to donate for a great cause, EMAGES is the place to do it.”
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