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Factors of Depression

teen depression - therapist near me

Mood disorders are very common mental health diagnoses in teenagers, but they still carry a lot of stigma. The first step in getting past a teen’s negative perception of their depression diagnosis is to provide some education on the topic. I like to think of depression as having three major contributing factors:

Genetic predisposition

A family history or genetic predisposition is what people are talking about when they refer to depression as “running in the family” or “a chemical imbalance.” When a genetic predisposition is present, a person’s brain is not able to effectively move and use hormones that contribute to mood, such as serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors are a wide range of stressors that contribute to a person’s mood, such as a significant loss, failing in school, divorce, trauma, bullying, and more.

The way a person perceives their world

Finally, the way a person perceives their world and thinks about what happens to them has an impact on their mood. If a person has a more negative mindset, or views “the glass half empty”, they are more susceptible to depression.

How to treat depression

The two most common forms of treatment for depression are medication and therapy. Both of these methods have pros and cons, but the most important thing to remember is that neither medication nor therapy works as a magic wand to address all aspects of the problem at once. Medication, for example, can help significantly with the genetic predisposition or “chemical imbalance”, but can do nothing about stress in a person’s environment. There is no pill on the market yet that can help someone process a bad breakup, or explore feelings of shame around being the “bad kid” in the family. Therapy can be very helpful in processing environmental stressors and helping a person learn to think about things differently, but can’t alter the chemistry in the brain. This is why doctors often believe that a combination of medication AND therapy is the best treatment for depression.


If you or a child you know might benefit from counseling, contact you can contact Canvas Health here or call (651) 777-5222.


The therapeutic process requires time and a willingness to participate, and medications can’t work unless the right one is found and it is taken as prescribed. The good news is that the majority of depression in teenagers is situational, meaning that once life starts improving, they find symptom relief. But a depression diagnosis sometimes means a long road of ups and downs. The measure of success isn’t only symptom relief, but progress in a healthier direction. Success might simply mean that the lows don’t get as low, don’t last as long, and can be dealt with until the feelings pass.

Author: Emily Johnson, MSW LICSW, School-Based Mental Health Supervisor

Depression in Teenagers

Factors of Depression Mood disorders are very common mental health diagnoses in teenagers, but they still carry a lot of stigma. The first step in getting past a teen’s negative perception of their depression diagnosis is to provide some education on the topic. I like to think of depression as having three major contributing factors: […]

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We are incredibly grateful to our Valley Vine & Harvest Throwdown sponsors! Their support helps make everything we do at Canvas Health possible!

3M

Andersen Windows

Mercury Trading Company

RBC Wealth Management

Eckberg Lammers, Attorneys at Law

Kelly Fenton

Lake Elmo Bank

M-Health Fairview

Ahola, Mack & Associates, Ltd.

BWBR

The Credit Department

Prime Therapeutics

USI

Valley Agencies/First State Bank & Trust

Khu Thao, Canvas Health CEO

Tom Ruter, Canvas Health COO

Hilke S. Riechardt-Martinez, Canvas Health CFO

St. Croix Valley Foundation

Kurt Seestrom and Denise Heuer

Thank You, Valley Vine & Harvest Throwdown Sponsors!

We are incredibly grateful to our Valley Vine & Harvest Throwdown sponsors! Their support helps make everything we do at Canvas Health possible! 3M Andersen Windows Mercury Trading Company RBC Wealth Management Eckberg Lammers, Attorneys at Law Kelly Fenton Lake Elmo Bank M-Health Fairview Ahola, Mack & Associates, Ltd. BWBR The Credit Department Prime Therapeutics […]

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The human experience is full of emotional ups and downs. It is absolutely normal for a young person to experience a wide variety of emotions. Adolescence is an extra emotionally intense time due to changes in hormones and rapid brain development, but without the “pause button” of a fully developed pre-frontal cortex.

mood swings

Bipolar Disorder Meaning

The phrase bi-polar is often casually used by high schoolers as a way of saying that they struggle with mood swings, but fails to be a truly accurate description of most high schoolers’ state of mind.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by major depressive episodes accompanied by manic episodes. True mania is actually quite different than a period of feeling happy or an absence of depressive symptoms. In a true manic episode, a person’s elevated mood would be accompanied by other symptoms such as pressured speech, racing thoughts, a feeling of grandiosity, psychomotor agitation, an increase in dangerous or risky behavior, or even psychosis. Bipolar disorder is difficult to diagnose, so if there are concerns about abnormal moods, refer the young person to a mental health professional.

Teenage Mood Swings

But even normal teenaged mood swings can cause problems, like if the young person is unable to tolerate them or find healthy ways to cope. Encouraging teens to remember that all feelings are in the realm of normal, and they eventually pass, is important. Supporting teens to “hang in there” and “ride the wave” of an emotion rather than making an impulsive decision in response to it, will help them learn to self-regulate.

If you or a child you know might benefit from counseling, you can contact Canvas Health here or call (651) 777-5222.

Tips for Coping with Mood Swings

In the meantime, how can the young person take care of themselves and think about what message the emotion may be communicating to them? Do they need some space, or need time to think something through? Do they need to take a walk or talk to a trusted friend or adult? Do they need professional support, a hot shower, a journal, or a workout? Can they express how they are feeling through an artistic medium like painting or music? Do they need to have a good cry (or a good laugh)? Or would a good night’s sleep help?

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
Because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
— Jellaludin Rumi

Author: Emily Johnson, MSW LICSW, School-Based Mental Health Supervisor

Are Mood Swings Normal?

The human experience is full of emotional ups and downs. It is absolutely normal for a young person to experience a wide variety of emotions. Adolescence is an extra emotionally intense time due to changes in hormones and rapid brain development, but without the “pause button” of a fully developed pre-frontal cortex. Bipolar Disorder Meaning […]

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The transition from summer to back to school can be difficult for any child. After weeks or months of having a less structured sleep schedule, fun-filled vacations or day camps, and freedom from the demands of daily homework, you might find that your child is approaching the upcoming school year with dread, avoidance, or outright resistance.

back to school - child mental health

Back to School Tips

While all of these reactions are normal, here are some tips for making the transition easier:

  1. Talk to your child about the upcoming change. Make a list with your child of what will be the same, different, or unknown as they enter a new grade. Read books together about going back to school.
  2. Start adding structure to your schedule. Rather than jumping in all at once, try inserting a bit of structure one step at a time. It could be adapting a regular bedtime, setting times for eating and play, or having a practice race of getting ready in the morning.
  3. Mark your calendars. Mark the first day of school on a calendar, have a countdown, or find some other creative way to help your child prepare. Also attend back-to-school night if your child’s school is holding one.
  4. Make it special. Whether it is a new outfit, new school supplies, or a special treat in your child’s lunchbox, give your child something to look forward to for their first day.

Back-to-School Mental Health Signs

While it’s normal to be dreading the first day of school, here are some signs that your child might be struggling with their mental health:

  1. Crying spells. If your child is crying longer or more often than usual, they may be struggling with anxiety or depression.
  2. Nightmares or sleeplessness. If your child is unable to fall asleep or stay asleep, or they are waking up with nightmares more often than usual, this may point to an underlying mental health condition.
  3. Extreme tantrums. If your child is acting out more than is characteristic for them, this may also be an indicator of a mental health concern.
  4. Avoidance or hiding. If your child cannot tolerate any mention of school or anything related to it, this is also cause for concern.

If you find your child is struggling with any of the above symptoms, there is help available. Canvas Health has school-linked mental health services at several Twin Cities metro schools, and we also have outpatient clinics throughout the metro.

Even if your back-to-school doesn’t look like the happy photos you see on your friends’ social media posts, just remember that kids are resilient and that early intervention can help get your child back on track. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or reach out to your school social worker for resources.

Author: Danielle Hance, MA, LPCC, REAT – Canvas Health school-based therapist

Back-To-School Mental Health

The transition from summer to back to school can be difficult for any child. After weeks or months of having a less structured sleep schedule, fun-filled vacations or day camps, and freedom from the demands of daily homework, you might find that your child is approaching the upcoming school year with dread, avoidance, or outright […]

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Canvas Health has over 30 openings in a range of positions all across the Twin Cities metro area. Openings include therapists, crisis clinicians, receptionists, and more!

As a nonprofit community mental health clinic, Canvas Health is a great place to work that allows staff to be supported and grow as professionals while living their values that all people—no matter age, identity, or life experience, etc.—get the care they deserve.


I was looking for somewhere that aligned with my values and where I could be supported and grow as a clinician.  I found that at Canvas Health.
-Rachel, Canvas Health therapist


Canvas Health Careers Benefits

And there are more benefits! Canvas Health is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee health, savings, and balance. We offer a variety of benefits for eligible employees and their families. In many cases, you can also cover your dependents, including your spouse or domestic partner, and children.

Benefit options offered by Canvas Health include:

  • Generous Paid Time Off starting at 22 days (accrual basis)
  • 8 paid holidays and 2 paid personal days
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • FSA/HSA
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Employer contribution to HSA per year
  • Employee discounts such as concert tickets, home services, travel, restaurants and more!

Come join Canvas Health, a pillar and critical provider mental health and substance use treatment services to the Twin Cities metro for more than 50 years.

For more info about Canvas Health, including a virtual tour of our Oakdale headquarters, visit our careers page. Otherwise head on over to the Canvas Health job board and find out how you can join our work helping our communities find hope, healing, and recovery.

you belong here - canvas health careers

Canvas Health Careers Offer Growth Opportunities

Canvas Health has over 30 openings in a range of positions all across the Twin Cities metro area. Openings include therapists, crisis clinicians, receptionists, and more! As a nonprofit community mental health clinic, Canvas Health is a great place to work that allows staff to be supported and grow as professionals while living their values […]

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Andrea*, an outpatient therapy client at Canvas Health, recently shared her story of how her work with her therapist helped her begin healing.

outpatient therapy mental health

“I started seeing a therapist at Canvas Health a few months ago to help me manage my Bipolar Disorder diagnosis. I can honestly say that she is the best therapist I’ve ever had. She listens to me and helped me make therapy goals that make sense to me. She helps me solve day-to-day situations and respects that I need some time to work on my past traumas.

I also joined one of Canvas Health’s intensive therapy groups, which is helping me not feel so alone. I’m learning to manage my symptoms, and to stop and think before self-harming or making other impulsive and unhealthy choices.”

Mental Health Outpatient Therapy

Outpatient mental health therapy at Canvas Health is provided both in our Bloomington, Cottage Grove, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, North Branch, Oakdale and Stillwater clinic locations as well via telehealth. To find a therapist at Canvas Health, please search our provider list.

Canvas Health’s outpatient therapy specialties include:

  • Canvas Health’s Relationship issues: marital and pre-marital couples therapy, communication skills, conflict resolution and sexuality issues
  • Mood/anxiety disorders: depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorders, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): state-certified, evidence-based DBT programming for adults and a modified program for adolescents
  • Anger management: group and individual therapy
  • Other: trauma related issues, foster care/adoption issues, adult ADHD, grief and loss, stress management, self-esteem, geriatric/aging, life transitions, and care for those in the LGBTQ+ community

Canvas Health offers a Sliding Fee Scale for eligible services based on income and family size. Those eligible for sliding fee discounted rates from Canvas Health include people who have low incomes and are uninsured or under-insured. Canvas Health also has flexible payment plan options for all clients.

Therapy covered by insurance

Canvas Health accepts Medicaid, Medical Assistance, Tricare, Medicare, as well as most private insurance including Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners, Medica, Optum, United Healthcare, UCare, Aetna, Cigna, and Preferred One. Call (651) 777-5222 to verify your insurance.

To make an appointment at Canvas Health, please call (651) 777-5222 to talk to our Intake Coordinators or complete our online appointment request form.  They can help match you with a clinician who can get you, your loved one, or your client the help they need in the location that’s most convenient.

Client Finds Hope and Healing through Outpatient Therapy

Andrea*, an outpatient therapy client at Canvas Health, recently shared her story of how her work with her therapist helped her begin healing. “I started seeing a therapist at Canvas Health a few months ago to help me manage my Bipolar Disorder diagnosis. I can honestly say that she is the best therapist I’ve ever […]

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If mood-altering chemicals are of concern, Canvas Health offers Substance Use Comprehensive Assessments (known as “Rule 25 Assessments” until 07/01/2022). These can be scheduled on a required (legally motivated) or voluntary basis.

Substance Abuse Assessment

What Is a Substance Use Comprehensive Assessment?

A Substance Use Comprehensive Assessment consists of an interview; a series of relatively standard questions conducted by a professional, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC), and generally lasts about forty-five minutes to one hour.  The individual will be asked to provide permission to the LADC to make “collateral” contacts – permission to reach out to someone who knows the individual well and can provide data helpful to the assessment process.  All of this assists the professional in determining whether the individual has a diagnosable Substance Use Disorder.

Additionally, the individual’s responses and collateral data collected assists in determining whether there is a need for intervention through Substance Abuse Counseling or Treatment as well as in determining the appropriate level of care.  Once all data is collected, recommendations are made for the individual and a report is sent to the appropriate and interested parties.

Substance Abuse Treatment Options

If there is a need for Substance Abuse Treatment, there are several levels of care for those with Substance Use Disorders:

  • Residential Treatment – the individual resides at the treatment facility for a period of time, receiving intensive (30 hours per week) Substance Abuse Counseling.
  • Medium-Intensity Treatment – the individual resides at the treatment facility for a period of time, receiving medium-intensity (15 hours per week) Substance Abuse Counseling.
  • Outpatient Treatment (with lodging) – the individual attends groups on an outpatient basis while residing in a sober housing environment.
  • Outpatient Treatment (without lodging) – the individual attends groups on an outpatient basis while residing in their home environment.
  • Continuum of Care – the individual attends one-on-one counseling with a LADC, the frequency of which is based on severity of need.

Generally, there is a continuum of care that involves a “step-down” process for the individual in need of Substance Abuse treatment.  This is determined in collaboration with the LADCs involved in the individual’s care.

If you or someone you know is in need of a Substance Use Comprehensive Assessment or Substance Use Treatment our friendly and non-judgmental providers are here to help. Book an appointment online or call us at (651) 777-5222.

Canvas Health Offers Substance Use Comprehensive Assessments

If mood-altering chemicals are of concern, Canvas Health offers Substance Use Comprehensive Assessments (known as “Rule 25 Assessments” until 07/01/2022). These can be scheduled on a required (legally motivated) or voluntary basis. What Is a Substance Use Comprehensive Assessment? A Substance Use Comprehensive Assessment consists of an interview; a series of relatively standard questions conducted […]

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“The best thing about providing service to our clients is witnessing the healing process first-hand. It brings me such joy to see their progress.

Recently, a client entered the Bloomington office and was not even able to sit in a chair. He was so nervous and very uncomfortable. I welcomed him to our office and explained that there was some paperwork to complete, and that he could do it when he was ready.

Canvas Health Administrative Specialist

He explained that he didn’t know where to turn or what to expect from therapy. I reassured him that he would have a conversation with his therapist, just like he was having with me. I explained that he was on a journey and he just took the first step, and it would be a wonderful process. I explained that over course of time, he would begin to increase his strength and understanding so much. That at some point, he would be filled with joy and wonder of his accomplishment.

Later, he stated that Canvas Health saved his life.

I will never forget him.”

~ Linda Pavlick, Administrative Specialist, Canvas Health Bloomington Clinic

Learn more about our Outpatient Services here.

Make a gift in honor of the work of our Outpatient Staff and Programs here.

“I Will Never Forget Him.” Administrative Specialist Shares Joy of Helping Clients

“The best thing about providing service to our clients is witnessing the healing process first-hand. It brings me such joy to see their progress. Recently, a client entered the Bloomington office and was not even able to sit in a chair. He was so nervous and very uncomfortable. I welcomed him to our office and […]

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Adam Wahlberg is one of Canvas Health’s new Board of Directors members who began his term in 2022.

About Adam

Wahlberg has a BA in Mass Communications from St. Cloud University and a Masters in Public Affairs from the U of M. An entrepreneur, he lives in Minneapolis and is the founder of Think Piece Publishing which is dedicated to mental health books where he published Julie Barton’s memoir, Dog Medicine, which became a New York Times bestseller.

Adam Wahlberg

He has served in editor positions for Twin Cities Business Magazine, Super Lawyers and Minnesota Law and Politics, and currently is the copy chief at Fast Horse marketing agency. He has a wide skill set in communications on mental health, messaging, running events and raising awareness.

“I’ve long admired Canvas Health for everything it does in the community. It shows up for people, which has never been more important. I’m delighted to lend my talents to Canvas Health. You are on the side of the angels,” said Wahlberg.

Learn more about Canvas Health’s Board of Directors.

Board of Directors New Member Feature: Adam Wahlberg

Adam Wahlberg is one of Canvas Health’s new Board of Directors members who began his term in 2022. About Adam Wahlberg has a BA in Mass Communications from St. Cloud University and a Masters in Public Affairs from the U of M. An entrepreneur, he lives in Minneapolis and is the founder of Think Piece […]

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Canvas Health school-based clinicians in Minneapolis Public Schools provided an incredible 159 hours of therapy to students during the recent teacher strike. Canvas Health currently supports eight Minneapolis Public Schools.

Therapy was conducted wherever students were most comfortable – in school buildings, in coffee shops, over Zoom, in homes, and in the community.

canvas health school-based clinicians

“Caring for students’ mental health is vitally important, especially during times of uncertainty. Our therapists joined other mental health supports in Minneapolis to rise to the challenge for their clients, providing a safe place and connection when children really needed it,” said Emily Johnson, MSW, LICSW, school-based mental health supervisor. “We are so grateful for our relationships with teachers and administrators in all of our schools, and for their support of all school mental health services, including the Tier 3 (most intensive) services that Canvas Health therapists offer.”

Johnson explained that therapists facilitated everything from individual and family therapy to doing outreach by bringing school lunches to the homes of clients. One therapist was able to help a young student by walking him to the strike line to say “hi” to his teacher because he was missing her.

Canvas Health provides school-based therapy in 33 schools in five Minnesota districts.

Learn more about Canvas Health’s school-based therapy program.
Make a gift in support of the school-based mental health program here

School-Based Therapy Carries On During Strike

Canvas Health school-based clinicians in Minneapolis Public Schools provided an incredible 159 hours of therapy to students during the recent teacher strike. Canvas Health currently supports eight Minneapolis Public Schools. Therapy was conducted wherever students were most comfortable – in school buildings, in coffee shops, over Zoom, in homes, and in the community. “Caring for […]

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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. During this month, Canvas Health will be highlighting the work of our Abuse Response Services program in the community, our clinics, and on social media.

canvas health abuse response services

Canvas Health encourages those who have experienced a sexual assault or dating violence to call our 24 hour crisis line at (651) 777-1117. This line is for Washington County residents, but advocates can help others with referrals to additional resources.

“Working in sexual violence advocacy and education can be difficult, but it is incredibly important. I believe that our work is creating social change in the hopes that we can put an end sexual violence. I am grateful that Canvas Health supports Abuse Response Services’ work, including 24-hour telephone crisis response, short-term counseling, 24/7 response to local hospital emergency rooms, support groups, legal advocacy, Safe at Home application assistance and community education,” said Tara Kline, Abuse Response Services Therapist/Supervisor

Kline continued, “Remember, one of the most important things we can for victims/survivors is to believe them!”

Learn more about Abuse Response Services here.

Make a gift to support the work of Abuse Response Services here.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. During this month, Canvas Health will be highlighting the work of our Abuse Response Services program in the community, our clinics, and on social media. Canvas Health encourages those who have experienced a sexual assault or dating violence to call our 24 hour crisis line at (651) 777-1117. This […]

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Canvas Health Client Story

When Joel* joined the Partnering for Jobs program, he was unsure about how to incorporate work into his life while receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration. He had a few jobs in the past but was never happy with how they worked out.

The client and Employment Specialist collaborated with VRS to get him a detailed Benefits Analysis. After learning how a future job may impact his benefits, he decided that working a consistent job would be best for him. The Employment Specialist and client applied to many jobs and found success with Afton Alps as a Ski Lift Operator. The client was highly motivated by the benefits that Afton Alps offered; including a free pass to ski for the season. In preparation for Afton Alps, the Employment Specialist, VRS counselor and client worked together to make sure everything lined up with his social security benefits. Joel worked at Afton Alps the winter of 2021 and after a successful season, decided he also wanted to work there the winter of 2022.

Once this season is over, he wants to find a job that is close to his apartment. The VRS counselor is involved in ensuring his potential job options align with his benefits to support his financial needs. Prior to working with the program, his interests were limited. He has since broadened his scope to include working as a cashier, which he said he would have never been comfortable with doing before joining the program. His experience at Afton Alps and working on communication skills with the Employment Specialist gave him the confidence to do a job with a great deal of customer interaction.

Vocational Services

Canvas Health’s Partnering for Jobs Individual Placement and Support Services program is dedicated to bringing hope, healing, and recovery by assisting individuals with finding and keeping competitive employment. The program is a collaborative effort between Canvas Health, Lifetrack and Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

Partnering for Jobs Program Services

Learn more about Partnering for Jobs here.

 

Partnering for Jobs program helps build new skills, confidence

Canvas Health Client Story When Joel* joined the Partnering for Jobs program, he was unsure about how to incorporate work into his life while receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration. He had a few jobs in the past but was never happy with how they worked out. The client and Employment Specialist collaborated with […]

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Canvas Health is pleased to announce its status as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC). This certification was authorized through the Minnesota Department of Human Services on Feb. 4, 2022.

CCBHC Certification

With this certification, Canvas Health will expand on many of the services that it is already providing, serving as a one-stop shop for mental health, substance abuse treatment, and other health care services in the community. The CCBHC model ensures access to 24/7/365 crisis care, ARMHS services, care for military personnel and veterans, care coordination with hospitals, law enforcement, and schools as well as access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), among other capabilities.

“CCBHC gives Canvas Health the financial and operational backing to more fully carry out community mental health care the way it was intended when John F. Kennedy signed the Community Mental Health Act in 1963. Though Canvas Health has always served our community in the spirit of that Act, which is helping vulnerable individuals and their families receive coordinated care, we will now be in the exciting position of expanding, increasing access, and improving those services,” said Matt Eastwood, Canvas Health CEO.

Canvas Health is now one of 13 CCBHCs in Minnesota, and is authorized to provide CCBHC services to individuals on Medicaid in Anoka, Chisago, Hennepin, Isanti, Scott, and Washington counties.

Canvas Health is currently hiring for multiple positions supporting CCBHC services including an adolescent psychiatrist, adult psychiatrist, ARMHS supervisor, and care coordinator. Those interested in those positions and other clinical positions at Canvas Health are encouraged to apply at CanvasHealth.org/Careers.

Canvas Health Achieves Certified Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC) Status in Minnesota

Canvas Health is pleased to announce its status as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC). This certification was authorized through the Minnesota Department of Human Services on Feb. 4, 2022. CCBHC Certification With this certification, Canvas Health will expand on many of the services that it is already providing, serving as a one-stop shop […]

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The celebration of Black History Month during February each year, offers an opportunity to explore and reflect upon the struggle and impact of Black people on the United States.

Canvas Health’s mission to bring hope, healing, and recovery to the people we serve fits well with Black History Month’s 2022’s theme, “Black Health and Wellness.”

To read about some of the Black leaders who have had profound impact on the mental health field and how the field serves Black people, you can visit the exploration we did last year. We also want to highlight Canvas Health’s understanding of mental illness and its disproportionate impact on Black people as part of our commitment to providing excellent care based on the individuals needs and circumstances of all our clients.

The Impacts of Mental Illness

Mental illness is common, affecting one in four Americans. Though the impacts of mental illness on Black Americans in particular are often disproportionate, due to conscious and unconscious societal failings of bias and inequity. Black adults are “20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems, such as Major Depressive Disorder or Generalize Anxiety Disorder (see here).” Black Americans are more likely to be disadvantaged socioeconomically due to cultural and systemic biases.

  • Socioeconomic circumstances often can be an indicator for the possibility of developing a mental illness.
  • Socioeconomic circumstances are a key factor in determining access to and quality of mental health care.
  • Mental health providers can have cultural biases that are factors in misdiagnosis and poorer treatment of Black clients.
  • As in other communities, there is significant stigma of mental illness with many Black communities. This stigma can be exacerbated by provider bias, leading to poor experiences and outcomes.

Canvas Health tries meet these needs by hiring excellent providers, providing ongoing training, collaborative work between care teams and community resources, and through the belief that we always need to continuing learning and improving. If you want to speak with a Canvas Health counselor, you can reach out by message or by phone here.

Visit Mental Health America for a huge list of resources and information about Black mental health history, statistics and other information about mental health in Black communities, mental health resources, and more.

Black History Month Heart

Black History Month Honored in February

The celebration of Black History Month during February each year, offers an opportunity to explore and reflect upon the struggle and impact of Black people on the United States. Canvas Health’s mission to bring hope, healing, and recovery to the people we serve fits well with Black History Month’s 2022’s theme, “Black Health and Wellness.” […]

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The Canvas Health Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Khu Thao, MSW, PsyD, LP, LICSW, as the agency’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective Feb. 28, 2022. Thao will succeed Dr. Matt Eastwood, who will retire after serving as CEO since 2015.

Dr. Khu Thao - CEO Canvas Health

Dr. Thao is a highly respected leader in the mental health care community and is currently the Vice President of Community Mental Health for Touchstone Mental Health in Minneapolis. In that role, she provides executive leadership and oversight of multiple service lines, including case management, behavioral health, residential treatment, and outpatient services. She also has served as Senior Director of Operations at Touchstone. Prior to that, her professional roles have included Clinical Manager at Amherst Wilder Foundation, Clinical Psychologist Fellow at the Indian Health Board of Minneapolis, clinician at Washburn Center for Children, and child protection social worker for both Hennepin and Ramsey Counties.

“We are confident that Dr. Thao is the right person to lead Canvas Health at this pivotal time,” said Karna Peters, Canvas Health Board Chair. “As a clinician, she understands and is fully committed to providing excellent care to clients. Additionally, Khu has a proven track record of persistence and results in driving initiatives and being a positive and insightful problem solver. She’s also a respected leader in advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives.”

Thao has an Executive Leadership Certification for Nonprofit Management from University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, a Psy.D. from Minnesota School of Professional Psychology, a Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota, and a BA from Gustavus Adolphus College. She is a recipient of the prestigious Bush Fellowship and a Title VI-E Welfare Fellowship.

“I am thrilled and honored at the opportunity to lead Canvas Health,” said Thao. “The agency is in a position of growth and is poised to build on its rich history of providing excellent clinical care to those who need it most. I’m most excited about offering my experience and commitment to service of others to Canvas Health’s incredible staff and clients.”

Canvas Health Names Dr. Khu Thao as New CEO

The Canvas Health Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Khu Thao, MSW, PsyD, LP, LICSW, as the agency’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective Feb. 28, 2022. Thao will succeed Dr. Matt Eastwood, who will retire after serving as CEO since 2015. Dr. Thao is a highly respected leader in the mental […]

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