Mental Health Download: Exploring Mental Illness, Suicide, Homelessness and Incarceration

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225

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Jun 2025

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About the show

Mental Health Association Oklahoma created The Mental Health Download podcast to share stories each week about mental illness, homelessness, incarceration and suicide, and how each can impact our lives in a profound way. Mental health affects everyone, yet the social stigma attached to mental health issues keeps so many of our family members, friends, colleagues and neighbors silent. Why are we so afraid to talk about these issues? Each week, our host Adi McCasland invites guests to share how mental illness, suicide, homelessness and incarceration have affected their work or lives.

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60 recent

June 24, 202554 min

Oklahoma's Eviction Crisis: When Suffering Becomes Policy

Oklahoma has the sixth-highest eviction rate in the nation. The impact of eviction does not end when the doors are locked. High eviction rates are linked to high rates of school absenteeism, job loss, family separation, homelessness, and incarceration. Yet, very little progress has been made by Oklahoma lawmakers in addressing eviction as a root cause of these systemic issues.In this episode of Mental Health Download, we sit down with Oklahoma Senator Julia Kirt to talk about her efforts to extend the state’s eviction timeline and why meaningful reform is urgently needed. We discuss the importance of legislative advocacy and how small changes in policy could lead to lasting impact for thousands of Oklahomans.We also spotlight Mental Health Association Oklahoma’s new partnership with Shelterwell, made possible by generous support from Inasmuch Foundation. Brad Senters, Manager of Eviction Prevention at MHAOK, joins us to share Shelterwell’s approach to eviction prevention, the value of dispute resolution, and MHAOK’s broader mission to strengthen housing stability and mental health services across the state.This is a powerful conversation about the human cost of eviction—and why Oklahoma’s housing policies must change.To read more about the need for eviction reform, visit MHAOK's blog, When Suffering Becomes Policy: Oklahoma's Eviction Crisis.

May 15, 2025Episode 623 min

Coriena's Story: Love, Survival, and Starting Over

Coriena's journey begins with a mother’s fierce devotion to her son—a love strong enough to risk everything. When faced with a dangerous and volatile situation, Coriena made one of the most difficult decisions of her life—she took her son and fled. With no time to plan and nowhere to go, Coriena chose safety over certainty, even if it meant homelessness. In this episode, Coriena shares her journey toward stability, healing, and hope. We also hear from Stephanie Roberts, Program Manager of Outreach and Rapid Response, who speaks to the critical importance of community collaboration in addressing Oklahoma City's unhoused population—and the resources needed to ensure long-term success.To learn more about Oklahoma City's Key to Home program, visit okc.gov/government/key-to-home. To support Mental Health Association Oklahoma's Street Outreach program and the many services supporting clients just like Coriena, visit mhaok.org/donate.

January 16, 2025Episode 559 min

Stephanie Roberts on the impact of her sexual trauma and addiction (re-release)

This is a re-release of a conversation I had with Stephanie Roberts back in 2023. Since that time, she’s gained two more years of recovery and has been promoted to Program Manager of our Oklahoma City Street Outreach and Rapid Response team. Stephanie is a native Oklahoman who, in childhood, experienced a sexual trauma that went unaddressed, resulting in a crescendo-like progression of events that ultimately culminated in the loss of her children, her home, her dignity. Humanity stepped in, knowing that everyone has value and possibility, and took a chance on her. And now she is the one reminding others in the shoes she once wore, that they, too, have value and possibility. This was such a good conversation, worthy of a re-release in our 2025 Season 1 batch of MHAOK staff success stories. It’s important to note that this conversation touches on sexual trauma and loss. While it’s critical dialogue to have, we understand that it could be difficult for some listeners. If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health concerns, please call one of our free mental health assistance center lines at 405.943.3700 or 918.585.1213 Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5pm, or contact us via www.mhaok.org. Additionally, if you or someone you know is in crisis, you can call or text 988 24/7.

January 16, 2025Episode 424 min

Jay Johnson on his journey to housing, healing and wholeness

Today, we're talking with Jay Johnson, Tulsa Housing Case Manager for Mental Health Association Oklahoma. Jay’s relation with us began a couple of years ago when he, himself, was living on the streets and battling addiction. He is a shining example of why Housing First is so important and effective. Since his time as a participant, Jay has been steadily working his way up in the agency. Once he stabilized, he was hired as part-time on-call staff, and since been promoted twice and earned three different certifications through Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Use Services, which he puts to great use serving Tulsans in need. It was a treat to have this conversation with Jay, as he shared his experience with homelessness, what guided him through recovery and the goals he’s set for himself. His drive is strong and his positivity is contagious. After this recording, Jay emailed a follow-up thought: He wants anyone who may be struggling right now to know that if they connect with us and utilizes the services offered at MHAOK, they will be supported as they work to achieve their goals. He signed off with “you can achieve as much as you believe!” If you ARE needing assistance or if you see someone who does, please reach out to us at 405.943.3700 or 918.585.1213, or you can contact us through our website at www.mhaok.org.

January 16, 2025Episode 339 min

Shay Seals experienced homelessness with her young daughter

Today, we're talking with Shay Seals, Service Coordinator for MHAOK’s Long Term Supportive Housing program in Oklahoma City. Shay recently celebrated her one-year anniversary with the Association after two bouts of homelessness and the realization that she wanted a more meaningful career. She and her young daughter spent too many months living out of her car (before a willful surrender), shelters and motels when she had the money. Shay’s story highlights the importance of financial management education and how so many people are only a paycheck or two away from homelessness Her story also shows how honest self-reflection, hard work, and most importantly, a solid support system, is integral to rebuilding your life. Her demeanor is grounding, her outlook inspiring. We really appreciate how Shay uses her experiences for the benefit of others – both in her openness here and in the work she does every day. If you see someone experiencing homelessness, you let us know via the Street Outreach and Rapid Response page of our website: www.mhaok.org.

January 16, 2025Episode 228 min

Kellie Gregory thrives after 22 years of homelessness and addiction

Today, we're talking with Kellie Gregory, Program Manager for our Tulsa Street Outreach team. Kellie was born into instability, with a mom and stepfather who battled drug addiction and were in and out of prison. She was a teen mom who went on to spend twenty-two years struggling with homelessness, addiction and the carceral system herself, before entering Women in Recovery. Kellie’s story is one of both grit and grace, and it allows her to connect with the people she serves every day. She has source value from her lived experience and uses it to help others in need. This conversation with Kellie shines a spotlight on how effective diversion programs and support systems are, and we are grateful for her coming on. In the conversation, she referenced sourcing donations for individuals coming out of homelessness. If you would like to help, please email donations@mhaok.org. If you see someone experiencing homelessness, let us know via the Street Outreach and Rapid Response page of our website: www.mhaok.org, and if you or someone you know needs substance use or mental health care resources, give us a call at 918.585.1213 or 405.943.3700, or again, let us know via our website at www.mhaok.org.

January 16, 2025Episode 142 min

Andrea Clevenger battled several addictions and homelessness

Today, we're talking with Andrea Clevenger, Community Response Team Case Manager for Mental Health Association Oklahoma. Andrea started with the agency as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist on the original Street Outreach team nearly two years ago before being promoted to Case Manager on our Community Response team – a partnership with the City of Oklahoma City. Both teams are critical components to ending homelessness in our state. She, herself, experienced homelessness for many years as she struggled with myriad addictions, which, along with an unwavering commitment to service, contributes to her professional success. It was an honor to talk in-depth with Andrea about her journey of housing, healing and wholeness, and to learn about the mottos that guide her – and in turn, guide her clients. We are grateful to have Andrea on, today, as she shares her story with us. She is brave. She is genuine. She is a joy to share space with. She referenced her friend who works at 988, and we’d be remiss not to remind the listeners that 988 is a free resource staffed with mental health experts who can assist you or someone you know with a mental health crisis. It’s mental health’s version of 911. They can be reached 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Additionally, if you are in a non-emergent situation and you need assistance finding mental health care or substance use treatment, you can call our Mental Health Assistance Center at 918.585.1213 or 405.943.3700 Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5pm or complete the form on our website at www.mhaok.org.

September 27, 202449 min

William Zangwill, PhD, on EMDR

Today we have Licensed Professional Counselor, Stacy King, interviewing Zarrow Mental Health Symposium keynote speaker, William Zangwill. Stacy has been in the mental health field for 29 years, where she has provided care for a diverse population. Stacy is trained in EMDR training and is currently working at a family-based treatment center and her private practice in Tulsa. Dr. William Zangwill is one of the original EMDR trainers, certified by Dr. Francine Shapiro. He has trained therapists in EMDR and other methodologies across the US, Europe, Asia and the Middle East; and his publications include “Combining EMDR and Schema Focused Therapy,” “The Need to Strengthen the Mindfulness Component of EMDR” and a chapter on sexual victimization in “Our Sexuality.” Currently, Dr. Zangwill practices in New York where he conducts EMDR trainings and specializes in the treatment of PTSD and sexual, marital and family problems We are thrilled that he is one of our keynote speakers at this year’s Zarrow Mental Health Symposium, and we are so excited that he joined us on the podcast. It is important to note that the conversation includes a brief story regarding sexual assault. While it’s valuable and relevant dialogue, we understand that it can be difficult for some listeners. The Mental Health Download starts now.

August 15, 202429 min

Kerri Fisher talks about the nuances of the human experience

Today, we have Mental Health Association Oklahoma’s Children's Behavioral Health Program Manager, Cynthia Mooney talking with Kerrie Fisher, Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University. Kerri has 16 years of practice and teaching experience, and she is passionate about providing training and resources at the intersections of micro and macro practice for mental and behavioral health professionals. Prior to her time in higher education, she was a licensed clinical social worker in school settings where she provided individual, group and family counseling, as well as case management and consultation for student care teams. Kerri is a regularly invited speaker in cultural humility, anti-oppressive practices and combating supremacy in all its forms. Additionally, she is a keynote speaker at the 2024 Zarrow Mental Health Symposium, themed Life Stages: Mental Health Across a Lifetime. We are grateful to have Kerri on today, and we’re excited to share this insightful and engaging conversation between him and our own Cynthia Mooney. Thank you for listening to the Mental Health Download.

March 7, 202425 min

Dr. Robin Aupperle, Elisabeth Akeman and Dr. Hannah Berg talk about their work at Laureate Institute for Brain Research

Today, I am talking with Dr. Robin Aupperle, Elisabeth Akeman and Dr. Hannah Berg Aupperle is is a licensed clinical psychologist and Principal Investigator at Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR) and Associate Professor at the University of Tulsa. Her research uses neuroimaging and behavioral measures to better understand approach-avoidance decision-making and mechanisms and predictors of psychological treatments for mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Akeman is a Licensed Professional Counselor currently serving as Lead Therapist and Clinical Research Coordinator for Dr. Aupperle’s treatment outcome studies at Laureate Institute for Brain Research. Her clinical training includes evidence-based interventions for anxiety, mood, and substance-use disorders with extensive training and experience in Behavioral Activation and exposure-based therapies. Berg is a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at Laureate Institute for Brain Research. Her research investigates clinical anxiety from a decision-making perspective, with the goal of contributing brain-based insights that improve the conceptualization and treatment of psychopathology. Her clinical training includes evidence-based interventions for anxiety, mood, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I am thrilled to have all three of them on today, and I hope you find the conversation as fascinating as I did.