Community Agency Review

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Liberty University *

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615

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Psychology

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Dec 6, 2023

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8

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1 Agency Review 1 Community Agency Review Brittany D. Torrence School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University Author Note Brittany D. Torrence I have no known conflict of interest to disclose. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Brittany D. Torrence. Email: bdtorrence1@liberty.edu
2 Agency Review 1 In the complex tapestry of mental health care, organizations like Hope Community Services emerge as vital threads, weaving together support, compassion, and transformative interventions for individuals and families. This paper embarks on a comprehensive exploration of Hope Community Services, a non-profit outpatient community mental health center established in June 1980 in south Oklahoma City. Their mission is deeply rooted in providing diverse behavioral health and addiction services, alongside addressing homelessness. This paper will also discuss AutismOklahoma. In a world where diversity is celebrated as a strength, organizations like AutismOklahoma stand as beacons of inclusivity, championing the belief that every person with autism is not only unique but profoundly important. As a non-profit dedicated to making a positive impact, AutismOklahoma tirelessly works towards empowering individuals with autism to reach their full potential, ensuring that families not only survive but thrive, and fostering communities that not only understand but wholeheartedly embrace differences. Summary Hope Community Services is certified through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Hope sets a standard of quality that aligns with best practices in mental health care. Collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, HUD, The City of Oklahoma City, and the Norman Housing Authority, Hope Community Services has cultivated a network of partnerships that enhances its capacity to meet the evolving needs of its community. To meet the needs, Hope is a non-profit organization who receives partial funding through the
3 Agency Review 1 government. ( Youth and Family Services, 2022 ) Patients will pay according to their income as well because of the services sliding scale. ( Youth and Family Services, 2022 ) Their mental health services are available to adults, children and families through the form of therapy. One of the goals is to aid children and young adults suffering from emotional issues resulting in behavioral problems. ( Youth and Family Services, 2022 ) Furthermore, Hope Community Services has a staff of over 260 employees and a commitment to an active partnership among consumers, family members, providers, and community leaders, Hope Community Services embodies a community-based, consumer-driven system of care. AutismOklahoma, established in 2002, traces its roots to a grassroots initiative driven by families united in their quest to address shared challenges. This institution operates autonomously, devoid of affiliation with a national counterpart, relying substantially on private contributions for financial sustenance. This unique funding model enables the provision of programs that are not only accessible but, in many cases, offered at no cost. ( Lauffenburger, n.d ) Among the spectrum of offerings, AutismOklahoma provides a diverse array of programs such as camps, art initiatives, as well as pen pal and friend meetups tailored for individuals diagnosed with autism and their families. The financial accessibility of these initiatives is underpinned by the organization's reliance on private donations, a noteworthy characteristic in the landscape of support services for autism. ( Lauffenburger, n.d .)
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4 Agency Review 1 Analysis There are many potential benefits of integrating faith-based counseling into the services provided by agencies such as AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services. By combining the strengths of faith-based counseling with the comprehensive support offered by these agencies, a more holistic and personalized approach to supporting individuals with autism and their families can be achieved. This collaborative model seeks to enhance emotional well-being, foster community connections, and address the unique needs of individuals with autism within the framework of their faith. AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services are esteemed organizations dedicated to providing support, resources, and services to individuals and families affected by autism and emotional distress. However, in the pursuit of a more comprehensive approach to care, it is essential to recognize the potential benefits of integrating faith-based counseling into the existing support structures. Faith-based counseling operates within the framework of religious or spiritual beliefs, providing individuals with a unique avenue for emotional support and guidance. Faith-based counselors are trained professionals who integrate psychological principles with spiritual values, offering a holistic approach to mental health. Incorporating such counseling into the services provided by autism-focused agencies along with mental health issues can bring about a range of benefits. Individuals with autism often face challenges beyond their diagnosis, including emotional and spiritual needs that may be overlooked in traditional support models. The same can be said for families struggling with emotional distress or mental health issues. Faith-based counseling
5 Agency Review 1 can offer tailored strategies to address these needs, fostering a sense of purpose, meaning, and emotional resilience within the context of the individual's faith. One of the strengths of agencies like AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services lies in their ability to create supportive communities for individuals and families affected by autism. Faith-based counseling can further enhance community engagement by incorporating spiritual support groups, counseling sessions, and activities that align with the individual's religious beliefs. This collaborative effort strengthens the sense of belonging and connection among community members. Faith-based counseling can play a pivotal role in addressing the stigma associated with autism within religious communities. By collaborating with agencies, faith-based counselors can educate and raise awareness about autism, promoting inclusivity and understanding. This collaboration contributes to the creation of an environment where individuals with autism and their families feel accepted and supported within their faith communities. For successful integration, training programs should be developed to equip faith-based counselors with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism. Collaborative efforts between faith-based counselors and agency professionals can facilitate a seamless exchange of expertise, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Application Collaborating with agencies like AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services requires a thoughtful and ethical approach to ensure the well-being of clients. By combining the strengths of faith-based counseling with the comprehensive support offered by these agencies, a more holistic and personalized approach to supporting individuals with autism and their families
6 Agency Review 1 can be achieved. This collaborative model seeks to enhance emotional well-being, foster community connections, and address the unique needs of individuals with autism within the framework of their faith including families working through emotional turmoil. Holistic Support for Individuals with Autism Individuals with autism often face challenges beyond their diagnosis, including emotional and spiritual needs that may be overlooked in traditional support models. Faith-based counseling can offer tailored strategies to address these needs, fostering a sense of purpose, meaning, and emotional resilience within the context of the individual's faith. Community Engagement and Social Support One of the strengths of agencies like AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services lies in their ability to create supportive communities for individuals and families affected by autism. Faith-based counseling can further enhance community engagement by incorporating spiritual support groups, counseling sessions, and activities that align with the individual's religious beliefs. This collaborative effort strengthens the sense of belonging and connection among community members. Addressing Stigma and Promoting Inclusivity Faith-based counseling can play a pivotal role in addressing the stigma associated with autism within religious communities. By collaborating with agencies, faith-based counselors can educate and raise awareness about autism, promoting inclusivity and understanding. This collaboration contributes to the creation of an environment where individuals with autism and their families feel accepted and supported within their faith communities. Training and Collaboration
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7 Agency Review 1 For successful integration, training programs should be developed to equip faith-based counselors with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism. Collaborative efforts between faith-based counselors and agency professionals can facilitate a seamless exchange of expertise, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Integrating faith-based counseling into the services provided by agencies like AutismOklahoma and Hope Community Services holds the potential to enhance the overall well- being of individuals with autism and their families. This collaborative approach acknowledges and addresses the multifaceted needs of individuals, combining the strengths of faith-based counseling and comprehensive agency support for a more holistic and inclusive model of care.
8 Agency Review 1 References Youth and Family Services . (2022, January 31). Hope Community Services. https://www.hopecsi.org/child-services/ Lauffenburger, M. (n.d.). Home «Autism Oklahoma . Autism Oklahoma. Retrieved November 13, 2023, from https://autismoklahoma.org/