The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also be a challenging period for those who are committed to staying sober. With social gatherings often centered around alcohol, it’s important to have strategies in place to maintain your sobriety while still enjoying the festivities. Here are some tips to help you stay sober during the holidays:
Preparation is key to staying sober. Before attending any holiday events, plan how you will handle situations where alcohol or other substances are present. Consider bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages and have a few responses ready if someone offers you a drink (or drug). Phrases like “I’m driving tonight” or “I’m taking a break from alcohol” can be helpful. The phrase “No, thank you” is an appropriate and effective response. If you’re feeling pressured, you can politely walk away; you don’t owe anyone any explanation!
If you’re struggling to stay sober during the holidays, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Canvas Health’s substance use groups are great ways to seek camaraderie and kinship to help during recovery. Through dialogue led by trained facilitators, group members can gain strategies and coping skills from others with similar experiences. Canvas Health also offers compassionate substance use assessments and treatments. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The holidays are a great time to begin new, substance-free traditions. Host a sober holiday party with activities like card or board games, movie marathons, or a potluck dinner. Engaging in activities that don’t rely on substances as the source of fun can help you enjoy the season without feeling left out.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who respect your decision to stay sober. If you’re feeling tempted, reach out to a trusted friend or sponsor. Staying connected with your sober support network can provide the encouragement you need to stay on track.
The holidays can be stressful, so it’s important to take care of yourself. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, meditation, or reading. Prioritizing your well-being can help you manage stress and avoid the urge to drink.
It’s okay to say no to attending events or gatherings that you feel might jeopardize your sobriety. Setting boundaries is an important part of healthy self-care. Politely decline invitations if you think the environment will be too challenging, and don’t feel guilty about putting your sobriety first.
Plan for contingencies! Have an exit strategy in mind in case you find yourself feeling pressured, uncomfortable or tempted. Drive yourself to events so you can leave if needed or arrange for a trusted sober friend to accompany you. Knowing you have a way out can aid to reduce anxiety and help you stay in control.
Remind yourself of the benefits of staying sober. Reflect on how far you’ve come and the positive changes in your life since choosing sobriety. Celebrate your achievements and focus on the joy and clarity that comes with living substance-free.
Staying sober during the holidays can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it’s entirely possible. Through planning ahead, creating new traditions and prioritizing self-care, you can enjoy a joyful and substance-free holiday season. Remember, your sobriety is a gift to yourself and those who care about you. Celebrate the season with clarity and confidence, knowing that you’re making a positive, healthy choice for your own well-being.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Canvas Health! 🎄✨
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also be a challenging period for those who are committed to staying sober. With social gatherings often centered around alcohol, it’s important to have strategies in place to maintain your sobriety while still enjoying the festivities. Here are some tips to […]
We are thrilled to announce that our Canvas Health North Branch Clinic is now a Naloxone Access Point! This initiative, made possible through a partnership with the Steve Rummler HOPE Network, allows any community member to request a free-of-charge intramuscular (IM) naloxone or fentanyl test strip kit – no questions asked.
Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving medication that can quickly restore the breathing of a person experiencing an opioid overdose. Opioid overdoses can be fatal if not treated promptly, and naloxone works by reversing the effects of opioids on the brain and respiratory system, effectively saving lives in critical moments.
Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are small strips of paper that can detect the presence of fentanyl in various drugs and drug forms, including pills, powder, and injectables. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs, sometimes without the user’s knowledge, significantly increasing the risk of overdose. By using FTS, individuals can be informed about the presence of fentanyl in their substances and take steps to reduce their risk of overdose.
At our North Branch Clinic, we are committed to supporting the health and safety of our community. Through our partnership with the Steve Rummler HOPE Network, we provide these essential resources to anyone in need. There are no prerequisites or questions asked – simply come to our clinic during business hours and request a kit.
For more information about Naloxone Access Points, visit the Steve Rummler HOPE Network. To learn more about our North Branch Clinic and the services we offer, please visit our Canvas Health North Branch Clinic page.
Together, we can make a difference in the fight against opioid overdoses. Join us in spreading awareness and ensuring that life-saving resources are accessible to all.
We are thrilled to announce that our Canvas Health North Branch Clinic is now a Naloxone Access Point! This initiative, made possible through a partnership with the Steve Rummler HOPE Network, allows any community member to request a free-of-charge intramuscular (IM) naloxone or fentanyl test strip kit – no questions asked. What is Naloxone? Naloxone, […]
Nature can be a powerful teacher.
Earlier this month, students from the “Intro to Medical Careers” class at 916 Career and Tech participated in a mindful nature walk. The excursion was led by their instructor and Canvas Health’s Mental Health Specialist, Matthew Darnold. During the walk, they practiced mindfulness by silently focusing on their senses and connecting with nature.
Without disturbing living plants or animals, students were encouraged to gather a small collection of natural items for a group project. While enjoying the crisp air and autumnal colors, students collected natural materials like pinecones, acorns, leaves, and stones to create nature mandalas with their group at the end of the walk.
Mandalas are geometric designs that symbolize harmony and balance in Hindu and Buddhist culture. While mandalas can be made of anything, using natural materials made this experience particularly meaningful.
Arranging natural materials into designs fostered a sense of calm and collaboration among the group. After the project was completed, students returned their eco-friendly designs back outside. This full-circle experience taught students the benefits of slowing down to connect with nature and find their own inner balance and harmony.
This type of learning experience is made possible through Canvas Health’s School-Based Mental Health Services. Our Therapeutic Assistance Program (TAP) provides on-site services to students who many not otherwise be able to access to them due to financial, transportation, or scheduling challenges. This collaborative effort between school psychologists, school social workers, teachers, and mental health providers includes diagnostic assessments and therapy.
To learn more our school-based services, click here.
Nature can be a powerful teacher. Earlier this month, students from the “Intro to Medical Careers” class at 916 Career and Tech participated in a mindful nature walk. The excursion was led by their instructor and Canvas Health’s Mental Health Specialist, Matthew Darnold. During the walk, they practiced mindfulness by silently focusing on their senses […]
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Gena Dickens, Dan Johnson, and Jean Mortenson who have dedicated 15 years of their careers to making a difference in our community.
Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission!
Gena Dickens in the Supervisor of the Children’s Mental Health Case Management Team. Gena joined Canvas Health in September, 2008. She became the Senior CMHCM in November, 2013 and in March, 2017 she stepped into the supervisor role. Gena earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Minnesota State University – Mankato and her Master of Social Work from the joint program College of St. Catherine and University of St. Thomas.
Both during her time providing direct case management services as well as now providing clinical and program supervision, Gena continues to work from a client focused, strength based and clinical perspective. Her position places the responsibly of the care of Washington County children and families who are struggling with mental health into her horizon. In her role as Supervisor of the Children’s Mental Health Case Management team, she is the face for Canvas Health to many of our partners, including Washington County Community Services, Community Corrections, and the County Attorney’s office, as well as the Department of Human Services and the Metro CMHCM supervisors’ team.
Sarah Amundson, Community Services Division Manager from Washington County, has this to say about Gena and her work:
Gena is a fantastic partner to the Children’s Division at Wash. Co! Her straightforward style and her ability to connect make her well-respected. Gena has excellent clinical skills and somehow manages to keep up with all the numerous requirements that come with Children’s Mental Health Case Management. She knows when things are working well and voices her concerns when we are lacking resources for the most vulnerable kids in our community. Her passion and dedication come through on a daily basis! We could not ask for a better partner in this work!
Gena – you are a wonderful ambassador of the Canvas Health Mission of bringing Hope Healing and Recovery to your everyday work life. THANK YOU for the 15 years of service children and families and for all of the support, direction , coaching and mentoring you have provided to your staff. Thank you for your dedication, living social work values and your sense of humor. Here’s to 15 more!
Congratulations to Dan on 15 years at Canvas Health! Dan provides outstanding leadership for Psychological Services and Canvas Health. Dan started 15+ years ago as a supervisor in Psychological Services and has progressed to his current position as Chief Psychologist.
Dan is a pleasure to work with, and his open-mindedness and low-key sense of humor make him an excellent leader and clinician. Staff describe him as the glue that holds Psychological Services together. He has been instrumental in many projects and changes at Canvas Health, to name a few, he started the vicarious trauma group, assisted in implementing Credible and CCBHC standards, and has enhanced the psych internship learning opportunities.
Thank you, Dan, for all that you do and for making Canvas Health a better place.
Jean has worn many hats during her time at Canvas Health, largely in the Substance Use Disorder Admin Program and currently at the front desk in our Forest Lake office. She is a go-to for insight on past processes and better understanding of how things have evolved at Canvas Health.
Jean has such a big heart for the clients we serve and goes above and beyond to help in any way that she can. She takes the time to find answers to questions she doesn’t know and never shies away from sharing her knowledge with others. Jean has also been a great leader at the Forest Lake front desk for providers and fellow front desk staff. She is always willing to help train new staff and be an ongoing resource, and for that we are very appreciative.
Jean is kind-hearted, honest and up front, a solid team player and has the best dry sense of humor. Our front desk team has learned a lot from Jean and her experience here at Canvas and we are grateful to have her as part of our team. Congratulations, Jean, on 15 years!
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Gena Dickens, Dan Johnson, and Jean Mortenson who have dedicated 15 years of their careers to making a difference in our community. Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions […]
Completing detox treatment is a significant milestone in the journey to recovery. However, it’s just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to health and sobriety. Here are some essential steps Canvas Health will help you take after you are released from detox treatment:
Substance Use Comprehensive Assessments (previously known as Rule 25 Assessments) are a type of assessment mandated by the state of Minnesota, and they are used develop care management plans for adults, adolescents, and their families.
During an assessment, one of Canvas Health’s licensed alcohol and drug counselors will use interviews and diagnostic screenings to collect personal biological, social, psychological and historical data. Confidential information in the assessment is only released to third parties after the individual has provided their consent by signing a release of information form.
Our staff assess and recognize issues beyond just substance use disorders, including other types of addiction and mental illness. As necessary, we provide referrals for these services, most of which are also offered by Canvas Health. Our services include assessment, consultation, education, concerned persons programming, and .
Ongoing therapy is vital for addressing the underlying issues that led to addiction. Regular sessions with a therapist or counselor can help you develop coping strategies, manage stress, and stay on track with your recovery goals. Canvas Health has a wide range of therapists and locations available to you.
Building a strong support system is crucial. Surround yourself with family, friends, and support groups who understand your journey and can offer encouragement. Consider joining a Canvas Health group at one of six locations.
In Substance Use Treatment at Canvas Health you will learn steps 4 – 10:
Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability. Include activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies. A consistent schedule can help reduce the risk of relapse.
Setting achievable goals can give you a sense of purpose and direction. Start with small, manageable objectives and gradually work towards larger aspirations. Celebrate your progress along the way to stay motivated.
Identify and avoid situations, people, or places that may trigger cravings or temptations. Develop strategies to handle high-risk scenarios, such as having a trusted friend accompany you or practicing refusal skills. Where are new, lower-risk places in your Minnesota neck-of-the-woods to find work, fun, and friends?
A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Pay attention to your diet, ensuring you get the necessary nutrients to aid your recovery. Regular exercise can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve overall health—whether a gym, Minnesota’s many trails and parks, or your local recreation department.
Educate yourself about addiction and recovery. Understanding the science behind addiction can empower you to make informed decisions and recognize the signs of potential relapse.
Find activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Volunteering in your community, pursuing a hobby, or taking up a new skill can provide a sense of accomplishment and keep your mind occupied.
Self-care is essential for maintaining mental and emotional health. Take time to relax, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that reduce stress and promote well-being.
Recovery is a continuous journey that requires dedication, support, and self-awareness. By allowing Canvas Health to help you take these steps, you can build a healthier, more fulfilling life after detox treatment. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on your support network—whether a counselor, group, family, or friend—whenever needed. Your commitment to recovery is a testament to your strength and resilience. Keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Completing detox treatment is a significant milestone in the journey to recovery. However, it’s just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to health and sobriety. Here are some essential steps Canvas Health will help you take after you are released from detox treatment: 1. Make an immediate appointment for an assessment. Substance Use Comprehensive Assessments […]
Substance use treatment is a critical step for many individuals on their recovery journey. The reasons people seek treatment are varied and deeply personal, often influenced by a combination of physical, psychological, and social factors. At Canvas Health, we meet people where they are on their journey to recovery. Some key reasons why people begin seeking treatment include:
Chronic use of substances like alcohol, opioids, and stimulants can lead to severe medical concerns, including liver disease, heart problems, respiratory issues, and other health disorders. When individuals recognize the detrimental effects on their health, they often seek treatment to prevent further damage and improve their overall well-being.
Many people who struggle with addiction have not prioritized their medical health and may be established with a primary care clinic or physician. Canvas Health can help provide education, intervention, and support for individuals experiencing health concerns resulting from substance use disorder.
Substance use and mental health are very closely linked. Many individuals use substances to cope with underlying mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. However, substance use often exacerbates these conditions, creating a vicious cycle. Seeking treatment allows individuals to address both their substance use and mental health issues simultaneously. Canvas Health offers co-occurring treatment programs, using strategies to support motivation and functional recovery.
Substance use can strain relationships with family, friends and colleagues. The behaviors associated with addiction, such as lying, stealing, or neglecting responsibilities can lead to interpersonal conflicts and loss of trust. Many people seek treatment with a goal to repair these relationships and rebuild their support networks, which are crucial for long-term recovery.
A Canvas Health client’s individual treatment plan will include participation in a Concerned Persons series and in some instances, individual concerned persons/family sessions, to help mend and strengthen relationships as well as promote understanding of the challenges of addiction.
The legal and financial consequences of substance use can be severe. Many individuals face legal issues such as arrests, fines, or incarceration due to substance-related offenses. Additionally, the financial burden of sustaining an addiction often leads to debt, job loss, and even homelessness. Seeking treatment can help individuals regain control of their lives and avoid further legal and financial troubles. Without even noticing, individuals who struggle with Substance Use Disorders become engaged in negative habits in their thoughts and behaviors.
A Canvas Health client will receive education on changing their negative thoughts, behaviors, and activities. Canvas Health offers both voluntary and court-ordered Substance Use Assessments for individuals. Our counselors have experience working with clients who are involved with the legal system. Canvas Health also offers treatment programs to those incarcerated at the Washington County Jail, the Chisago County Jail, and the East Central Regional Juvenile Center.
Many individuals reach a point where they realize that their substance use is preventing them from living a fulfilling and meaningful life. They may feel trapped in a cycle of addiction and long for a sense of purpose and happiness. Treatment offers a pathway to rediscovering passions, setting goals, and achieving a higher quality of life.
The encouragement and support of family and friends can be a powerful motivator for seeking treatment. Loved ones often play a crucial role in helping individuals recognize the need for help and providing the emotional and practical support needed to enter and stay in treatment.
Ultimately, the decision to seek treatment often comes from a personal realization and readiness to change. This moment of clarity can be triggered by a significant event, such as a health scare, an intervention, or hitting “rock bottom.” When individuals are ready to make a change, they are more likely to engage fully in the treatment process and commit to their recovery journey.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, remember that help is available, and recovery is possible. Reach out to the Canvas Health Care Team at (651) 777-5222 or click here to begin your recovery journey.
Substance use treatment is a critical step for many individuals on their recovery journey. The reasons people seek treatment are varied and deeply personal, often influenced by a combination of physical, psychological, and social factors. At Canvas Health, we meet people where they are on their journey to recovery. Some key reasons why people begin […]
My journey began in April 2020. Needless to say it hasn’t been a perfect journey, but with every lapse, there was a lesson. I’ve been waiting 4 1/2 years to say I have 1 year of continuous sobriety. Today is that day. Progress not perfection!
I’d get months together, but never hit a year. It’s been incredibly dark at times. It’s also been experiences that were incredible and I will cherish forever. It’s been close calls to death, countless hospital stays, detoxes, treatments… it’s also been vacations, retreats, spiritual moments, prayer, meditation & fellowship.
If you’re struggling, I feel you. When you’re in it, you’re IN IT. If you have just the tiniest bit of light, or are so fed up with yourself you feel frozen… take a deep breath and simply try to feel hope. I know that word may not even be in your vocabulary right now, but lean on your loved ones, lean on those that you might see on social media that have posted about their journey. Just mutter the word “help.” They want to hear from you, and I know your voice feels so small, but if you reach out to anyone, they WILL hear you. For me – Helping someone helps me too.
Life in RECOVERY has given me a life I cherish. It’s simple, beautiful, and I’ve never felt gratitude like I do today. I dream, I belly laugh, I ugly cry, I’m feeling more and more like a better version of myself every day. Some days are hard, most days are great. I’m clear. I respect myself. I know how to set boundaries. I am just so grateful I have a life to live. And I live it with intention.
If you are struggling, reach out for help… I want my story to help just one person if it can.
-M, One Year In Recovery
September is National Recovery Month. If you are ready to begin your substance use disorder recovery journey, contact Canvas Health’s Care Team at (651) 777-5222 or click here to schedule an assessment.
My journey began in April 2020. Needless to say it hasn’t been a perfect journey, but with every lapse, there was a lesson. I’ve been waiting 4 1/2 years to say I have 1 year of continuous sobriety. Today is that day. Progress not perfection! I’d get months together, but never hit a year. It’s […]
I’ve been watching “Nutrition by Kylie” a lot on YouTube lately. Surprisingly, this series has posed a unique opportunity to talk about the depth of consent conversations.
Kylie is a registered dietician with a recurring series on cooking “unexpected” foods. She often showcases things we’ve been taught absolutely aren’t included on a healthy plate: things like salty spam wedges or a bowl of instant ramen. Kylie’s goal isn’t for viewers to cut out flavors that they love—in fact, her mantra is always “focus on what you can add to, not what you can subtract from, your meals.”
This simple concept of being additive instead of restrictive is directly applicable in consent conversations.
While I could spend hours lecturing about things that you absolutely cannot do (like not having sex with someone who is drunk or who hasn’t clearly and verbally consented), it would be a disservice, especially to young people, to stop the conversation there.
Young people are hungry for information about how to find someone they are compatible with and how to treat their partner right. If we focus solely on listing all the limitations in a relationship, we miss the opportunity to go deeper to ensure consent in other aspects of relationships.
I had a student recently who perfectly captured this idea. We had watched the Cycling Through Consent video, which uses the metaphor of a bike ride to explain the complexities of consent. Afterward, he raised his hand and asked: “Okay, so you told us what not to do. But…say if I hypothetically wanted to find a bike riding partner…how can I do that?”
The answer is to ask! An additive approach to consent is to lean into the conversation and be curious. Going from one bike ride to a more long-term bike riding schedule/partnership simply requires some more dialogue. Go the extra step to tell them what YOU think would be fun, then ask if that’s okay with them.
One of my favorite examples of informed consent comes from a surprising source: Drew Barrymore and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In this short video, Drew asks if Dwayne could do five squats while she was on his back. Dwayne laughs and says “Yes, do you want to do it now?” to which Drew heartily agreed.
Dwayne already had Drew’s consent (she was hyped, she was smiling, she verbally said yes, “let’s do it”), but he went the extra mile to say “here’s what I’m going to do…” This is what an additive approach to consent looks like. It gave them both a chance to head into the bit fully engaged and prepared. Everyone had fun and it’s because everyone (including the audience) was on the same page.
This type of thoughtful, thorough consent is overtimes overlooked. In our day to day life, consent typically only comes up when something “bad” has happened, typically regarding sexual misconduct. But as these examples show, it’s about respect and choice. It’s about being aligned with the people around you and never making assumptions. And most importantly, it’s seeing consent as a more holistic and essential component to happy, healthy relationships.
Written by: Jasmine Lee, Prevention and Education Specialist, Abuse Response & Prevention Services
To learn more about our Abuse Response & Prevention Services, click here.
I’ve been watching “Nutrition by Kylie” a lot on YouTube lately. Surprisingly, this series has posed a unique opportunity to talk about the depth of consent conversations. Kylie is a registered dietician with a recurring series on cooking “unexpected” foods. She often showcases things we’ve been taught absolutely aren’t included on a healthy plate: things […]
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Sarah Melby who has dedicated 20 years of her career to making a difference in our community.
Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission!
We are thrilled to recognize Sarah for her 20 years of service at Canvas Health. She joined the agency in March 2004 as an AR/Billing Specialist and advanced her career in the AR team as an AR Billing/Collection Specialist, Senior Billing/Collection Specialist, Senior Billing Specialist and currently Billing Revenue & Credentialing Supervisor.
Sarah is truly an expert in understanding our complex billing requirements to make sure staff get paid for the services they deliver to our clients. She helped us implement our previous EHR Profiler more than 15 years ago, and she was a valued project team member on the Credible implementation project which went live in February 2021.
Since then, Sarah has managed and updated our billing matrix in Credible which is significantly more complex than Profiler was. And our CCBHC designation since February 2022 has only added to the billing fun as well as our cost reporting requirements! In addition Sarah is also providing information and guidance for our credentialing process which is a critical prerequisite to getting paid for services.
All along Sarah has always been eager to grow her skills and take on challenging assignments, and she also shares her skills with others to solve workflow problems or billing issues. She is great at data analytics and identifying the root cause of problems that we come across on a regular basis. We are very fortunate to have Sarah on our team. Thank you to Sarah for 20 years of dedicated service to Canvas Health!
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Sarah Melby who has dedicated 20 years of her career to making a difference in our community. Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission! Celebrating 20 […]
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Darcy Gassman who has dedicated 25 years of her career to making a difference in our community.
Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission!
Darcy chose to join HSI in March of 1999. She was the therapist in one of our adolescent day treatment programs TLC 2, located in Oak Park Heights, for 14 years. After that program closed in 2013, she moved to Oakdale as the therapist at TLC. In 2017 she became the Lead Therapist and remains in that position today, with just a short 3 month stint to start our all-day TEC program.
At our recent staff event, we recognized 25 years of passion, unconditional positive regard, dedication, humor, excellent clinical skills, mentorship/leadership, and so much more. Of those attributes, we want to highlight specifically her passion. She never just “dials it in,” she continues to have the same level of excitement about her work as some of my new young therapists.
Darcy’s impact has reached hundreds of adolescents, their families, schools, co-workers, and communities. Because of Darcy, kids and their families have learned to love themselves, forgive, be vulnerable, love others, take risks, be assertive, set boundaries, accept themselves, and know their worth. On behalf of Canvas Health and the community we want to thank Darcy for her 25 years in day treatment, which is no small feat. We are truly better because Darcy continues to choose Canvas Health.
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional mental health provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on Darcy Gassman who has dedicated 25 years of her career to making a difference in our community. Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission! Celebrating 25 […]
We’re so grateful for our 2024 Golf Classic Sponsors! Your belief in our mission makes a profound impact on the people we serve. Thank you for your incredible partnership!
See you July 22 at Dellwood Country Club!
10:30 a.m. Driving Range Open
11 a.m.-12 p.m. Lunch
12 p.m. Shotgun Start
Canvas Health Golf Classic 2024 Slideshow by Julia Yach
We’re so grateful for our 2024 Golf Classic Sponsors! Your belief in our mission makes a profound impact on the people we serve. Thank you for your incredible partnership! See you July 22 at Dellwood Country Club! 10:30 a.m. Driving Range Open 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Lunch 12 p.m. Shotgun Start Canvas Health Golf Classic 2024 […]
Erika Furo completed a Master’s level internship at Canvas Health. She now works in our school-based mental health program. Recently she shared some thoughts about why she continues to work at Canvas Health.
“I decided to stay at Canvas Health because I felt impressed by their values, reputation, and ways of operating.
The individuals who make up the TAP team are compassionate and valuable clinicians who I feel grateful to work with. There is a noticeable absence of negativity on the TAP team, which makes everyone feel included and celebrated for the work they do.
Those in positions of leadership on the team foster a sense of comfortability that allows clinicians to advocate for their own needs. Canvas Health has contributed greatly to my success as a therapist.”
-Erika Furo, LGSW, MSW
Erika Furo completed a Master’s level internship at Canvas Health. She now works in our school-based mental health program. Recently she shared some thoughts about why she continues to work at Canvas Health. “I decided to stay at Canvas Health because I felt impressed by their values, reputation, and ways of operating. The individuals who make up the TAP team are compassionate and valuable clinicians who […]
As a part of Pride Month, Canvas Health’s Rainbow Affinity Group has scheduled a series of LGBTQIA+ Lunch & Learn sessions. Each week over the lunch hour, staff are invited to tune in to the virtual meetings to learn more about the mental health topics relating to this community.
At the June 5 Lunch & Learn, the group focused on Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder in the LGBTQIA+ Community. Here are some of the facts that were shared with the group that underscore the importance of prioritizing mental health for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
The LGBTGIA+ community tends to have a higher occurrence of both mental health and substance use disorders than the more significant population:
Many within the community struggle in silence and face worse health outcomes as a result. For example, 40% of transgender adults have attempted suicide in their lifetime, as compared to less than 5% of the general U.S. population. It is also estimated that LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults have a 120% risk of experiencing homelessness for several reasons, including family rejection or discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Higher substance use rates within the community can be attributed to several reasons, including higher levels of stress, marketing, and even a lack of cultural humility within healthcare services. Higher levels of stress in the LBGTQIA+ community might be due to social prejudices or even discriminatory laws in areas of daily life (i.e., employment, relationship recognition, healthcare, etc.). Many healthcare providers grow up outside of the community and do not take the time to show cultural humility towards the community. As a result, many problems arise, such as microaggressions. Marketing by using targeted efforts to exploit LGBTQIA+ connections to bars and clubs via alcohol and tobacco has been pervasive. Efforts such as direct advertising in national gay and transgender magazines or sponsorships of events/organizations for LBGTQIA+ issues only further normalize substance use within the community.
The LGBTQIA+ community is only growing as time moves forward. We greatly hope this is due to increased allyship within the broader community. An ally tries to understand what others in the LGBTQIA+ community might be experiencing and lends their voice to help combat issues like those mentioned in this article.
Our role at Canvas Health is to lead with empathy and compassion to make sure that all are welcome at our organization.
As a part of Pride Month, Canvas Health’s Rainbow Affinity Group has scheduled a series of LGBTQIA+ Lunch & Learn sessions. Each week over the lunch hour, staff are invited to tune in to the virtual meetings to learn more about the mental health topics relating to this community. June 5: Mental Health & Substance […]
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional substance use disorder provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on John Cassidy who has dedicated his career to making a difference in our community.
Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission!
In 1983, Human Services, Inc. in Washington County was a mere fourteen years old when John was hired as a full-time assessor. The Stillwater offices were in two locations: in the Government Center and above the AA Club, downtown. During those days, the agency worked in close collaboration with Washington County to provide its Pre-Petition Screening for civil commitment. Assessment services were mobile, meaning John spent a great deal of time driving, providing assessments to people in various hospitals and detox centers around the metro. For several years, John and a colleague also led the charge with the “Washington County Team Experience.” They gathered the top students from Washington County High Schools and took them on a three-day adventure to the University of River Falls to learn leadership skills.
To better serve the agency’s client, the agency asked John to study and learn the Spanish language. In 1990, he was chosen to be part of a two-year international fellowship, offering him the opportunity to share his skills among various countries throughout Central and South America. Since then, he continues to visit Central and South America.
During his time with the agency, John has completed thousands of assessments, touching so many lives. He has witnessed four changes in the agency’s name and the employee count has increased from, “about 60,” to over 320 total employees. There have been five different CEOs and seven Department Managers. Canvas Health is fortunate to have employed John Cassidy for the past forty years. He has proven to be dedicated, skilled, dependable, and loyal.
In our Staff Showcase series, we’re highlighting individuals who make Canvas Health an exceptional substance use disorder provider. Today, we shine the spotlight on John Cassidy who has dedicated his career to making a difference in our community. Join us in thanking our incredible staff for their contributions to our mission! Celebrating 40 Years with […]
Our school-based clinicians in Minneapolis Public Schools met with providers from other agencies also providing service in the district earlier this month.
The focus of the meeting was planning smooth transitions for students who are changing buildings and need ongoing mental health supports.
The clinicians identified ways to help navigate these transitions and were able to meet and talk with clinicians from schools where their students would be going.
Canvas Health‘s Beth Hopkins was on the planning committee and made maps for everyone to better understand the schools and neighborhoods!
Learn more about our school-based mental health program >>
Our school-based clinicians in Minneapolis Public Schools met with providers from other agencies also providing service in the district earlier this month. The focus of the meeting was planning smooth transitions for students who are changing buildings and need ongoing mental health supports. The clinicians identified ways to help navigate these transitions and were able to meet and talk […]
