MPOWER PSYCHOLOGY CLUB
MPower is designed to educate teenagers on mental health issues relevant to them, to initiate interest in potential careers in the mental health profession, to de-stigmatize mental health care, and to support the community through service projects promoting mental wellness.
This new program is being pilot-tested in one high school in Palm Beach County during the 2009-2010 school year with a plan to expand it to more schools in the future. Young people learn, through a series of videos produced by local mental health providers, about a variety of disorders including eating disorders, stress and anxiety, major mental illnesses, and much more. They are also provided a safe environment in which to share their own fears and experiences and will be connected to any resources they may need to learn more. A special community service component will help them learn more about the mental health profession and perhaps encourage some of them to pursue a career in a mental health profession. The MPower pilot test includes to 80 youth this school year and, so far, has involved at least 10 mental health professionals in the production of DVD instructional videos.
MPower at Park Vista
The students at Park Vista Community High School have an opportunity to learn more about mental health issues and professions with a newly formed psychology club called MPower. Guest speaker at their last meeting was Denise Germano of the Easter Seals Disability Service. She spoke to the students about ADHD, Asbergers syndrome, and autism.
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Jackie Beiner (Senior) is the new president of the MPower Psychology Club at Park Vista High School. |
Joy A. Bartmon, Esq., P.A. MHA Board Member |
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