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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
Is someone in your life drinking too much? Are you concerned about drug use with someone you care about? Are you worried about your personal drug or alcohol use?
Substance abuse behaviors to look for include:
Canvas Health’s experienced staff are open for chemical health assessments via telehealth on your schedule. We handle all types of referrals, including court-ordered substance abuse assessments in Minnesota. If you don’t have insurance to cover your substance abuse assessment or substance abuse treatment, we can help with that as well.
Call us at (651) 777-5222 or request a substance abuse assessment.
Is someone in your life drinking too much? Are you concerned about drug use with someone you care about? Are you worried about your personal drug or alcohol use?
Canvas Health’s Psychological Services program provides comprehensive or targeted psychological evaluation and consultation. These evaluations may assist diagnostic decision making, treatment planning, risk assessment, placement, employment, or court dispositions.
Psychological Evaluations provide an in-depth understanding of an individual’s mental health status and provide diagnostic clarification and treatment recommendations, using psychological tests and extensive review of collateral information. Psychological Evaluations can focus on cognitive functioning, neurocognitive development, or risk assessment for problematic behaviors.
A psychological evaluation is usually completed when a specific diagnostic question needs to be answered and a routine mental health assessment is not able to address the concern. Psychological Evaluations are often based on a referral made by the examinee’s Primary Care Physician, Psychiatrist or Psychotherapist.
Depending on the testing that is to be completed, a Psychological Evaluation can take 2 to 8 hours.
Any past mental health assessments, current medication information, School-based IEP assessments and plans.
Clinical history, social and family history, review of mental health symptom presentation.
Yes, with the extent of the coverage varied depending on the insurance plan.
Referrals are accepted from contracting court and social services programs and from other community health care providers, as well as from Canvas Health clinical staff. Please download and fax a request for assessment to the Psychological Services Support Specialist, at (651) 251-5059 with referral or appointment questions.
Canvas Health’s Psychological Services program provides comprehensive or targeted psychological evaluation and consultation.
Canvas Health was founded in 1969 by a group of concerned citizens who identified a need for increased availability and access to mental health services for their community’s most vulnerable residents. This mission continues today in a variety of different ways, including:
Broad insurance acceptance: Canvas Health accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Medical Assistance, and other public and private options. This makes it easier for people with different types of coverage to access our services.
Financial assistance available: For those who may not have insurance or who need extra help with costs, a sliding fee scale and flexible payment plans are available. This ensures that everyone can get the care they need, regardless of their financial situation.
Commitment to access: Canvas Health’s focus on insurance acceptance and financial assistance options demonstrates our commitment to making sure that everyone in our community has access to quality mental health and substance use disorder care.
To verify your insurance, talk to our Intake Coordinators by calling (651) 777-5222.
Canvas Health was founded in 1969 by a group of concerned citizens who identified a need for increased availability and access to mental health services for their community’s most vulnerable residents. This mission continues today in a variety of different ways, including: Broad insurance acceptance: Canvas Health accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including […]
Canvas Health is proud to recognize Native American Heritage Month and honor the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S.
One of the ways in which Canvas Health works with federally recognized Tribal Nations is through our Suicide Prevention Program Tribal Liaison, Adam Preuss. Adam is a member of Upper Sioux Community, and acts as the Suicide Prevention Program’s Tribal Liaison for the four Dakota Communities: Upper Sioux, Lower Sioux, Shakopee Mdewakaton Sioux, and Prairie Island.
Adam has been with our suicide prevention program for over five years. In his role, Adam provides research- and evidence-based culturally responsive presentations as well as Question, Persuade and Refer (QPR) suicide prevention trainings.
Adam has done extensive work to increase engagement in the suicide prevention program through teaching mental health skills and activities. Activities include leading foraging events where he will take a group into the woods to work on identifying plants and mushrooms. In the winter, he facilitates painting classes.
“It feels good to be self-sufficient. Taking care of yourself and being mindful of your mental health is really suicide prevention if you think about it,” Adam said.
One of the coalitions he founded, the Upper Minnesota Suicide River Valley Suicide Prevention Coalition, adopted a highway, which helps the group make personal contributions to a cleaner environment. He also is working on a crisis prevention procedure manual in conjunction with and for “Pact for Families” in
Willmar, Minn.
Recently, Adam worked with the Middle School Native Club at the Montevideo School to paint a mural. The mural depicts Traditional, Grass, Fancy, Fancy Shawl, and Jingle Dress dancers.
Contact Tribal Liaison Adam Preuss at apreuss@hsicrisis.org.
Learn more about Canvas Health’s Suicide Prevention Program here.
Canvas Health acknowledges that our clinics are on Indigenous lands, which are the historical, ancestral, and contemporary homelands of eleven federally recognized Dakota and Ojibwe tribal nations throughout Minnesota. Mni Sota (the water that reflects the sky) is centered as the birthplace for the Dakota, with Bdote (where the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers meet) and Bde Wakan (Spirit Lake, now Lake Mille Lacs) highlighted in Dakota creation stories. The Ojibwe (Anishinabe), who are the most populous tribe in the United States, occupy land around the entire Great Lakes, including in Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario (Read more: Minnesota Historical Society).
This article was researched and written by Emily Johnson, MSW, LICSW as a part of the Canvas Health Cultural Diversity Committee’s efforts to highlight culturally relevant work within our agency.
Canvas Health is proud to recognize Native American Heritage Month and honor the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S. One of the ways in which Canvas Health works with federally recognized Tribal Nations is through our Suicide Prevention Program Tribal Liaison, Adam Preuss. Adam is a member of Upper […]
Canvas Health is thrilled to celebrate our 2023 doctoral intern graduates: Bria Haynes, Noreen Raja, and Natalia Witkowska.
On September 1, 2022, Bria, Noreen, and Natalia embarked on Canvas Health’s Doctoral Internship in Clinical and Health Service Psychology. Since then, they have actively engaged in diverse areas of psychology such as individual psychotherapy, clinical and forensic evaluations, and adherent DBT services, accumulating a total of 2,080 hours since their initiation.
This accredited internship by the American Psychological Association (APA) presents an exceptional and multifaceted experience. Throughout the year, interns participate in an array of training opportunities, spanning outreach, program development, outcomes measurement, trauma-informed care, cross-discipline collaboration, consultation, research, and more, allowing for a comprehensive skillset development.
Beyond its established framework, this internship maintains an ongoing evolution, continually adapting to address the needs of interns, the agency, as well as the clients and community we serve. Many of the present internship practices and procedures have sprung from the innovative ideas of our interns. They bring with them concepts and techniques from other agencies, knowledge of cutting-edge research and practices, and a spirit of innovation that mirrors the essence of the program itself.
“I am incredibly proud of Bria, Natalia, and Noreen for all they have done in the past year. All three of our interns this year stepped out of their comfort zone, tackled new learning experiences, and continued to hone their already impressive skills. I am excited to hear about all of their successes in their future endeavors!” – Morgan Krause, PsyD, LP, Lead Clinical Psychologist & Director of Psychology Training
Congratulations graduates!
Learn more about our Doctoral Internship in Clinical and Health Service Psychology >>
The application deadline for the next internship is November 20, 2023.
Canvas Health is thrilled to celebrate our 2023 doctoral intern graduates: Bria Haynes, Noreen Raja, and Natalia Witkowska. On September 1, 2022, Bria, Noreen, and Natalia embarked on Canvas Health’s Doctoral Internship in Clinical and Health Service Psychology. Since then, they have actively engaged in diverse areas of psychology such as individual psychotherapy, clinical and […]
Canvas Health offers mental health therapy services in more than three dozen schools throughout the Twin Cities area. In 2023, we are expanding our reach to include St. Michael-Albertville High School, as well as both Middle Schools in the district. See a list of all schools served by Canvas Health’s School-Based Mental Health Team >>
Last month, our School-Based Mental Health therapists gathered for a wonderful back-to-school retreat. The team brushed up on paperwork, celebrated successes, learned new clinical skills, and had some fun! The team, which provides diagnostic assessments and therapy services to students at their schools, values the time they can get together, swap ideas, and learn best practices from each other.
The School-Based Mental Health Team is committed to supporting students, families, teachers, and administrators. Therapists work within the school’s community setting to help identify and address mental health concerns, eliminate barriers to accessing care, and provide services in a way that makes the most sense for students.
School-based therapists can provide mental health services to students during the school day or after school. We can help students work through things like depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and more. Canvas Health therapists work collaboratively with others in the school, consulting with school administrators, teachers, and other treatment providers.
Parents, legal guardians, and caregivers also can access support from the therapist by scheduling a telehealth appointment. During these sessions, the therapist can provide support and strategies for helping the child at home. Uninsured families can apply for grant funding to help cover the cost of therapy and support.
Services are offered in person as well as via telehealth, which is accessible by computer, tablet, or smartphone. Learn more about Canvas Health’s School-Based Mental Health Services and meet the fantastic members of our team!
Canvas Health offers mental health therapy services in more than three dozen schools throughout the Twin Cities area. In 2023, we are expanding our reach to include St. Michael-Albertville High School, as well as both Middle Schools in the district. See a list of all schools served by Canvas Health’s School-Based Mental Health Team >> […]
The Partnering for Jobs Individual Placement and Support Services program is dedicated to bringing hope, healing, and recovery to individuals by assisting them with finding and keeping competitive employment.
Dr. Khu Thao, Canvas Health’s CEO, reflects on the importance of the Partnering for Jobs program to clients in our programs. “Canvas Health understands that for adolescents and adults alike, stable employment is an important part of an individual’s mental health. Working can offer an individual confidence, a sense of self-worth, and valuable social connections.”
The Partnering for Jobs Program’s specific services to individuals include: job placement, coaching, and support; vocational counseling; benefits counseling; job retention and follow-along supports; and integration of mental health care with Partnering for Jobs services.
“We’re so proud of Canvas Health’s collaboration with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, and Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services on the Partnering for Jobs program. Together, we’re meeting individuals where they are currently functioning and supporting them through every step of their employment journeys,” said Thao.
Along with employment support, Partnering for Jobs offers supported education to those enrolled in the Young Adult Program (ages 14 – 26). This service is focused on the specific needs of the individual, but can include education exploration, study skill development/homework support, financial aid/application assistance, course enrollment and accommodation advocacy.
For questions regarding eligibility criteria or the referral process please ask your Canvas Health provider or Case Manager for a referral or contact: Sierra Dooley at (651) 338-7559.
The Partnering for Jobs Individual Placement and Support Services program is dedicated to bringing hope, healing, and recovery to individuals by assisting them with finding and keeping competitive employment. Dr. Khu Thao, Canvas Health’s CEO, reflects on the importance of the Partnering for Jobs program to clients in our programs. “Canvas Health understands that for […]
Alexa was just 15 when she lost her best friend, Alissa Haines, to suicide.
Over the years, Alexa has faced her own personal mental health challenges, and has seen others in her life struggle, too.
A self-proclaimed “fighter”, Alexa is passionate about giving back to the people and causes that she loves. “I’ve always believed that everyone has the power to bring sunshine to another person’s life, whether they’ve been friends for a long time, or they just met,” she said.
In 2020, she decided to combine her passion for helping people, love of softball, and her desire to honor Alissa into the Annual SOS Softball Tournament. The event is named after the Stomp Out Suicide 5K event, which also honors Alissa and benefits Canvas Health.
In its first year, the tournament raised over $6,000 and has subsequently raised well over $6,000 each year. Alexa donates all of the proceeds to Canvas Health to support mental health and substance use care.
In 2023, the tournament will move to a larger venue to accommodate the growing number of teams who want to be a part of the effort. The 4th Annual SOS Tournament is set for July 21-23, 2023 at Sand Creek Complex in Coon Rapids, MN.
“I’m proud of creating a really fun event that people can rally around and support. I know Alissa would be proud of me,” Alexa said.
Alexa was just 15 when she lost her best friend, Alissa Haines, to suicide. Over the years, Alexa has faced her own personal mental health challenges, and has seen others in her life struggle, too. A self-proclaimed “fighter”, Alexa is passionate about giving back to the people and causes that she loves. “I’ve always believed […]
In honor of National Sleep Awareness Week, we asked Virginia, one of our amazing clinicians, to share strategies on how to get the best sleep to help our mental health!
In our culture of capitalism and individualism, we often celebrate individuals who sacrifice sufficient sleep in order to get the job done. Famous business leaders regularly brag about getting less than the recommended 8 hours of sleep and credit their workaholic lifestyle as to why they have been successful in their careers.
However, studies show that lack of sleep not only hurts our GDP, but exponentially worsens our emotional and behavioral health. Many mental health diagnoses list sleep disturbances as symptoms and 50-80% of patients in behavioral health settings report chronic sleep impairments, as opposed to 10-18% in the general population.
Often, the relationship between mental health and sleep is bi-directional, with depressed patients reporting insomnia and insomniacs reporting higher rates of depression. Insomniacs also report increased suicidal ideation and patients with insomnia are 2-4 times more likely to remain depressed even when the depression is treated with evidence-based clinical care. All of this can be scary to the average American adult, who 1 in 3 of us are chronically sleep deprived, per the CDC. There are simple tools and tricks one can adhere to in order to increase the likelihood of having a good night’s rest.
If you try these tips and ideas and you are still struggling with sleep, talk with your doctor about completing a sleep study. You may have a sleep disorder that can be easily dealt with that you may not know about.
Article author: Virginia Suarez, Canvas Health School-Based Therapist
In honor of National Sleep Awareness Week, we asked Virginia, one of our amazing clinicians, to share strategies on how to get the best sleep to help our mental health! How does Sleep Impact Mental Health? In our culture of capitalism and individualism, we often celebrate individuals who sacrifice sufficient sleep in order to get […]
Thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services through Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District, Canvas Health’s school-based therapists are able to provide enhanced mental health groups in some of the school buildings. Beatrice Ajana, Canvas Health school-based therapist, recently partnered with her school’s social worker, Gaby Reeve, to start cooking classes for students at Metro Heights Academy.
All students at the school, whether or not they are actively involved in therapy, are welcome to join the cooking classes. The focus of the class is making and tasting diverse recipes. In their first class, students made a Mexican guacamole recipe. The next class is going to focus on a Nigerian meal from Beatrice’s family.
Goals of the cooking class include:
All of these goals are created with the overarching goal of improving mental health. For more information on how cooking can impact mental health, see articles below:
Cooking Is the Perfect Recipe for Mental Health | Psychreg
Mental Health Benefits of Cooking Your Own Food (verywellmind.com)
Kitchen therapy: Here’s how cooking at home can help your mental health (msn.com)
Thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services through Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District, Canvas Health’s school-based therapists are able to provide enhanced mental health groups in some of the school buildings. Beatrice Ajana, Canvas Health school-based therapist, recently partnered with her school’s social worker, Gaby Reeve, to start cooking classes […]
