Explore the realities of OCD beyond common stereotypes. One of our Youth MOVE PA Youth Advisory Council members, Ella Schimizzi, reveals how OCD affects daily life, relationships, and mental health. Learn about effective treatments like ERP and CBT, and discover how to support loved ones with understanding and empathy. This episode offers insights into OCD's complexities and highlights resources for further support. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding and break stigmas around mental health.To learn more about the Youth Advisory Council you can visit https://www.pmhca.org/Youth-Advisory-Council.

Learn about the concepts of self-diagnosis in autism spectrum disorder with August, the acting secretary of the Youth MOVE PA Youth Advisory Council. Discover how his experiences with sensory challenges and masking have shaped his identity and advocacy. This episode delves into the importance of understanding and acceptance, offering insights into the diverse expressions of autism. Join us to learn about practical coping strategies and the power of community support in embracing neurodivergence.To learn more about the Youth Advisory Council you can visit https://www.pmhca.org/Youth-Advisory-Council.

Most youth-led initiatives are about speaking up — but this episode shows how authentic leadership grows from within. Kai Green and August Kane from Youth MOVE Pennsylvania's Advisory Council reveal how their time in their roles have transformed their confidence, advocacy skills, and sense of community. Discover how their experiences are shaping new leaders ready to tackle mental health stigma, LGBTQ+ support, and social change in powerful, tangible ways. To learn more about the Youth Advisory Council you can visit https://www.pmhca.org/Youth-Advisory-Council.

In this inspiring episode of Our Story Isn't Over, we sit down with Lawrence C. Harris to explore the powerful intersection of personal storytelling, resilience, and mental health advocacy. Lawrence shares his journey of overcoming adversity and the mission behind his work to empower others through authentic storytelling and community support. We delve into the importance of owning one's story and the transformative power it holds for both the storyteller and the audience. Discover how you can connect with Lawrence and learn more about his impactful work at lawrencecharris.com.

In this inspiring episode of Our Story Isn't Over, we sit down with Diana Kaufman to explore the powerful intersection of creativity, resilience, and suicide prevention. Diana shares the mission behind the Hold On Campaign, a movement dedicated to spreading hope and awareness through art and advocacy.We close the episode with a moving original song co-written by Diana Kaufman and Mia Stegner, featuring vocals by Mia Stegner, production by Raymiah Jackson, and animation by Lucia Martinez Rojas.Learn more and discover how you can get involved at holdoncampaign.org.

In this insightful episode, hosts Elizabeth Noecker and Chandler Nolet sit down with Brittany Bodine to discuss effective ways to empower youth and young adults. They delve into practical strategies and share personal experiences on how to provide meaningful support during this critical stage of life. From fostering resilience and encouraging leadership to creating inclusive environments and offering mentorship, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. Tune in to learn how we can collectively uplift and empower youth and young adults.

Chandler and Elizabeth have an inspiring conversation with Katelyn Bender about her incredible journey to overcoming addiction. Katelyn bravely opens up about her struggles, sharing the raw and honest details of her battle with addiction. She offers profound insights and discusses the valuable lessons she's learned along the way, providing hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges. Her story is a powerful reminder of resilience, strength, and the possibility of recovery.

On this episode of "Our Story Isn't Over," we chat with Youth MOVE Revolution, a chapter of Youth MOVE National. Join Laryah, Rose, and Marc as they discuss the significance of the Catholic Youth Center and the importance of creating a space where youth feel safe, seen, and heard.Youth MOVE Revolution Website: https://ymrevolution.wildapricot.org/Youth MOVE Revolution Linktree: youthmoverevolution | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree

Conversations with Paolo del Vecchio, Director of the Office of Recovery at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), delve into various topics including his personal recovery journey, youth mental health, and the significance of peer support. Paolo elaborates on SAMSHA's key priorities concerning youth mental health. SAMHSA’s National Model Standards for Peer Support Certification | SAMHSA Youth and Young Adults | SAMHSA Youth MOVE National Peer Center – Motivating Others Through Voices of Experience (youthmovepeercenter.org) Peer Recovery Center of Excellence (peerrecoverynow.org)

In this episode we meet Mandie and Dan, two trainers from Youth MOVE PA's Sources of Strength program. Sources of Strength is a school-based upstream suicide prevention program that is evidence-based, strengths-based, and...well...just pretty based in general! Through our discussion we learn about the post-traumatic growth, the strengths wheel, and some fun stories about how Sources of Strength is changing the way schools approach mental health amongst students. Dan Krupinsky entered the behavioral health field in 2023 when he became a Certified Recovery Specialist and, shortly thereafter, a member of both PMHCA and PaPSC. As a proud graduate of Penn State’s Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, he is excited to use the skills that he has gained and honed over years of working with and in front of the public to do good and make a difference in his home state of Pennsylvania. Despite entering the behavioral health field as a professional relatively recently, he has years of experience working with children and young adults in various volunteer positions and is thrilled to finally be able to do it full-time. In his free time, Dan loves being active, exploring new places and attending live shows (especially music and comedy), as well as reading and watching too many TV shows and movies.  Mandie Burgess-Gonzalez worked as a physical therapist assistant in nursing homes from 2008-2020. Mandie started her bachelor’s degree in public health at Cedar Crest College because she felt she needed a change, but still wanted to work in a field that is helpful to others. She completed her bachelor’s degree in 2023 while working at Lowe’s regional distribution center. After finishing her degree, Mandie became a part-time substitute teacher for the local school districts and enjoyed working with youth and young adults. Mandie is currently working toward a master’s degree in public health at Chamberlain University. In her free time, she spends time with her two children, her parents, her poodle, and her cat. She also likes travelling and watching old television shows.  To learn more about Sources of Strength, visit our website OR email us at [email protected] Sign up for our newsletter and become a Youth MOVE PA member today!