Center for Child Counseling

Seven Local Families Receive $7,000 Each Through the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation ‘Christmas in July’ Initiative

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NEWS RELEASE

August 13, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Seven Local Families Receive $7,000 Each Through the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation ‘Christmas in July’ Initiative

Summer gift provides monetary relief to Center for Child Counseling families experiencing unique and significant challenges.

Through a special summer Christmas in July initiative, The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation chose seven families through the Center for Child Counseling to receive $7,000 each in an effort to provide financial assistance to families who have faced significant challenges and would greatly benefit from support. The seven families gathered at the U.B. Kinsey Educational and Community Center in West Palm Beach on August 6 to receive the much-needed and much-appreciated checks. 

The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation, based in Palm Beach, started the Christmas in July program in 2011 to alleviate the lack of funding for non-profits during the summer. Each year the organization accepts applications from selected, local non-profits to learn of their most deserving families in need of monetary relief.

This year’s recipients are resilient families receiving therapeutic services through the Center for Child Counseling and working to build better lives for their children. The families include: a 33-year old single mother of two who is on dialysis three times a week and legally blind; a 25-year-old single mother of five children who is currently escaping an abusive relationship with the children’s father and residing in a shelter; grandparents caring for their grandson because of the abuse he experienced while under the care of his mother; a 17-year-old single mother who will be faced with eviction from her home when she turns 18 in the coming months; a single mother of two who has endured profound hardships and emotional turmoil and living in a small, old studio apartment that is not safe; a 20-year-old single mother of two who has a long history of homelessness due to no fault of her own; a 14-year-old daughter who is living with her mother who had a traumatic life-altering injury that has caused extremely limited mobility and now their basic needs are not always met.

When Center for Child Counseling CEO Renée Layman announced that assistance would be provided to each of the seven families, there was a resounding sense of disbelief, gratitude, and tears of joy.  

The families expressed this “life changing” support would be used for things such as: first, last, and security deposits to obtain stable housing; food; medical care; childcare; diapers; back-to-school supplies. 

“We are most grateful to the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation for their year-round leadership in our community of serving and helping those most in need. Thank you for continuing to be a partner of ours and bringing essential financial assistance to families who are struggling and especially need a hand up in the summer months while parents may have increased difficulty with childcare and are preparing to send their children back to school,” stated Layman. 

PHOTO ID:
(Credit – Tracey Benson Photography)
Center for Child Counseling staff and board members with the families who received financial assistance from The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation Christmas in July initiative at the UB Kinsey Educational and Community Center on August 6, 2024. 

About Center for Child Counseling
Since 1999, Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. For more information visit, centerforchildcounseling.org. 

Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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Center Partners with FSU and Receives First Federal Grant to Support Children & Families in PBC

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NEWS RELEASE
August 7, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Center for Child Counseling Partners with FSU and Receives First Federal Grant to Support Children & Families in PBC
Building Resilience and Accessibility for Vulnerable Populations Ensuring Equity

Local nonprofit Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) in partnership with Florida State University secured its first-ever federal grant through SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). The $576,416 award will be used to address the unmet mental/behavioral and social services needs of underserved and underrepresented children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma. 

The funded project, Building Resilience and Accessibility for Vulnerable Populations Ensuring Equity (BRAVE), will build community capacity to provide trauma-informed care in child-serving systems through training and consultation for system providers, professionals, and caregivers. BRAVE focuses on under-served and under-resourced communities in Palm Beach County–Riviera Beach, Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, and Pahokee–where there are significant numbers of children and families (including immigrants, refugees, and asylees) facing adversity and trauma and critical gaps in resources, including trauma-informed care and treatment. 

“This is a significant milestone and will enable us to expand our public health approach to preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children and families in our community, while building positive childhood experiences,” said Renée Layman, CEO of Center of Child Counseling.

The funding will support children and families who may face persistent challenges and disparities related to poverty or economic stress, high crime rate, housing instability, physical and/or emotional stress, lack of preventative care to address the impact of multi-generational and ongoing complex trauma, and lack of access to effective trauma treatment.

The project will deliver trauma treatment services for 350 children and adolescents, care coordination services for 350 families, caregiver support groups and workshops for 700 parents and caregivers, and trauma-informed training for 7,466 professionals and paraprofessionals throughout the five-year lifetime of the project.

Project BRAVE includes a partnership with Florida State University for program evaluation and improvement and development of infrastructure to meet the needs of the community. 

“This federal grant and the partnership between FSU and the Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity are crucial for advancing our understanding of mental health disparities and developing effective interventions. By combining our resources and expertise, we can foster opportunities that will drive significant improvements in mental health outcomes in Palm Beach County,” stated Dr. Eugenia Millender, co-founder and co-director for the FSU Center for Population Sciences for Health Equity and associate professor at the FSU College of Nursing. 

Throughout this project, CFCC will build on collaboration with existing community and systems-level partners, including Empower Healthcare primary care medical clinic in Pahokee, Urban Youth Impact afterschool literacy and leadership program in Riviera Beach, For the Children youth afterschool programming in Lake Worth. On a national level, CFCC will collaborate with Child First’s Center for Prevention and Early Trauma Treatment, National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Category II Center to develop, advance, or adapt interventions to improve engagement and outcomes for traumatized youth, including culturally and linguistically appropriate services in the project communities.

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Heather Bennett Appointed as Director of Advancement of Center for Child Counseling

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July 3, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com 

Heather Bennett Appointed as Director of Advancement of Center for Child Counseling

Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) announces Heather Bennett as director of advancement to play a crucial role in raising funds for the Palm Beach County-based nonprofit, supporting its mission through developing long-term organizational sustainability.

“We are thrilled to promote Heather to our leadership team to lead our donor stewardship and cultivation efforts. Her work supports our work in helping children and families with the prevention and healing of adverse childhood experiences and trauma,” stated Renée Layman, chief executive officer of Center for Child Counseling. 

Heather Bennett is a dedicated nonprofit advancement professional with more than ten years of experience in business development and client services. Since earning her bachelor’s degree at Nicholls State University in Louisiana, Heather has thrived in collaborative team environments in which she could serve the needs of clientele in tandem with the needs of the organization. 

“Through personal experience as a child and young adult, I understand the obstacles to accessing proper mental health services, as well as the valuable, positive impact counseling may have on one’s life. I am eager to combine this passion for mental health advocacy and my skills in development operations and donor stewardship,” said Bennett. 

In her new role, Bennett leads the organization’s donor stewardship and cultivation efforts, managing all fundraising activities, including: overseeing donor stewardship, legacy giving programs, coordinating the Circle of Giving, developing the CFCC Events Committee, and coordinating special donor appeals. This role is pivotal in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of CFCC through strategic engagement with donors and supporters. 

Bennett added, “I look forward to identifying and implementing sustainable growth strategies while connecting community members and donors to CFCC’s significant mission.”

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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10 Ways to Support Your Child’s Mental Health This Summer

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Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and adventure! However, it can also be a period of transition and uncertainty for children. Supporting your child's mental health during this season is crucial for their overall well-being.

Here are ten ways you can help:

1. Encourage Open Communication
Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and thoughts. Regularly check in with them and listen without judgment. This helps build trust and shows that you value their emotions. For younger children, these feelings are often expressed through their play.

This video includes helpful tips on how to engage in child-centered play with your child.

 

2. Maintain a Routine
While summer often means a break from the usual schedule, keeping a consistent routine provides a sense of stability. As much as possible, set regular times for meals, activities, and bedtime to help your child feel safe and secure. This is particularly important for very young children, especially before the age of 5. Children thrive on structure and consistency - and it also helps parents by creating a predictable environment that helps children grow emotionally, cognitively, and socially.

3. Promote Physical Activity and PLAY!
Encourage your child to stay active through sports, dance, or even simple outdoor play. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve mood, and reduce anxiety. Here are 11 ways to encourage your child to be physically active.

Play is essential because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development and well-being of your child. Play also offers a great opportunity for you, as a parent or caregiver, to positively engage and interact with your child. Check out our Ways to Play page for fun ideas. We love this resource from the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, Brain-Building Through Play: Activities for Infants, Toddlers, and Children. The handout series provides suggestions games and play-based activities based on your child’s age.

4. Limit Screen Time
While it's tempting to rely on screens for entertainment, excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health. Set boundaries and encourage other activities like reading, games, arts and crafts, or outdoor exploration. Have a Nature Scavenger Hunt by making a list of items found in nature, such as leaves, rocks, or flowers. Or conduct simple science experiments such as baking soda and vinegar volcanoes or making a rainbow in a jar. These are fun and educational activities!

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends minimizing or eliminating media exposure, other than video chatting, for children under the age of 18 months. Learn more from the AAP about how media can affect your child.

5. Foster Social Connections
Arrange playdates, group activities, or a trip to the park to help your child stay connected with friends and peers. Social interactions are vital for emotional health and can help reduce feelings of loneliness. Here are 3 ways to help your child build social connection skills.

6. Provide Healthy Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can positively affect mood and energy levels. Involve your child in meal planning and preparation to make healthy eating fun. We love these ideas:

  • Plant a garden with your child and watch it grow! Not only is play in the dirt fun, but your child is more likely to try foods they have grown. Tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and peppers are a good place to start.
  • Make cooking a family activity! Talk about your family's food traditions and teach them a favorite recipe.
  • Take a field trip to a farmer's market or local farm to learn more about other types of vegetables and fruits that may not be available at your grocery store.

The AAP has a wealth of information about nutrition for parents and caregivers.

7. Encourage Mindfulness and Relaxation
Teach your child simple mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga. These practices can help them manage stress and stay calm. Our Loving-Kindness Mindfulness video for kids is a great start!

8. Support Their Interests
Whether it's a hobby, sport, or artistic pursuit, encouraging your child to engage in activities they love can boost their self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.

9. Be a Role Model
Children often mirror the behavior of their parents. Demonstrate healthy coping strategies, positive thinking, and emotional regulation. Showing that you take care of your own mental health sets a powerful example and sets the foundation for lifelong health!

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you notice persistent changes in your child's behavior or mood, don't hesitate to seek professional support.

Supporting your child's mental health this summer doesn't have to be complicated. By incorporating simple strategies into your daily routine, you can help ensure that your child enjoys a happy and healthy summer season. We have put together a rich array of reliable resources for you. 

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. If you need additional resources or support, don't hesitate to reach out to us or a mental health professional. If you have questions or need additional support, please contact us.

Dr. Fox-Levine Receives Physician Hero in Medicine Award

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June 3, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com 

Dr. Fox-Levine Receives Physician Hero in Medicine Award

Palm Beach Medical Society Services recently honored Shannon Fox-Levine, M.D., as the Physician Hero in Medicine at its 21st Annual Heroes in Medicine Awards Luncheon on May 23, 2024, at Benvenuto’s in Boynton Beach. The awards honor people throughout Palm Beach County who use their skills and resources to provide outstanding service. 

Dr. Fox-Levine serves as president of Palm Beach Pediatrics, president of Palm Beach Pediatric Society, and medical director of Center for Child Counseling. She was awarded Physician Hero for embodying the characteristics of skill, compassion, and dedication to the ideals and beliefs of the profession and for contributing in significant ways to the betterment of health care. 

“This is an amazing honor to be awarded as the Physician Hero in this county of pretty amazing physicians, so I really appreciate the recognition for the work I do in this county…when you love what you do, you never work a day in your life, and that’s me,” expressed Dr. Fox-Levine in her acceptance speech.

As a strong advocate for Florida’s private pediatric healthcare providers, Dr. Fox-Levine’s tireless efforts have improved the financial landscape for pediatric practices and enhanced the quality of care for children across the state. Her decade-long service as the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Pediatric Council Chair and her advocacy for  appropriate pay for services have earned Dr. Fox-Levine the prestigious American Academy of Pediatrics Chapter Special Achievement Award.

Dr. Fox-Levine’s appointment as the Medical Director at Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) signifies a pivotal milestone in her career. Her expertise and dedication come at a critical time when our nation’s youth are facing a mental health crisis. In this role, she plays a crucial part in addressing the shortage of professionals capable of supporting the overall well-being of children. Through her leadership, CFCC is poised to expand its impact in providing essential mental health support to vulnerable youth in Palm Beach County. 

Dr. Fox-Levine has been involved with CFCC for more than 10 years, also serving as a board member and medical consultant. CFCC’s Pediatric Integration Program was launched three years ago with Palm Beach Pediatrics to expand mental health services available to children served within the primary care setting–bridging the gap between primary care and community mental health. In her role as Medical Director, Dr. Fox-Levine works in tandem with CFCC leadership to expand support to other practices in Palm Beach County.

Dr. Fox-Levine’s involvement in various healthcare committees underscores her commitment to advancing pediatric care on multiple fronts. Locally, she has served as President of the Palm Beach Pediatric Society since 2014, working to build a collaborative network of pediatric care  providers and sub-specialists in Palm Beach County. Nationally, as a committee member on the Payer Advocacy Advisory Committee for the American Academy of Pediatrics, she contributes to assessing the public and private payer sector–advocating for benefits coverage for primary care pediatricians. Her participation in the Joe DiMaggio Neighborhood Partners further demonstrates her dedication to providing care to community members across South Florida. Dr. Fox-Levine’s multifaceted involvement in healthcare committees highlights her role as a strong leader in advocating for the comprehensive care of children and young adults. 

According to Renée Layman, CEO of Center for Child Counseling and the one who nominated Dr. Fox-Levine for the honor, “Shannon is a fierce, passionate advocate for children. Her tireless efforts are ensuring that all children in our community have the opportunity to grow up safe and healthy. For this, she is most deserving of being named a Hero in Medicine.” 

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

Click here to view the news release.

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Jane Robinson Receives Viola Brody Award from Florida Association for Play Therapy.

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NEWS RELEASE
May 22, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com 

 

Founder of Local Nonprofit Honored for Her Work with Children in Play Therapy
Jane Robinson receives Viola Brody Award from Florida Association for Play Therapy.

Jane Robinson has been championing children in Palm Beach County for more than 25 years, advocating for their mental health through play therapy. Robinson was recently honored with the Viola Brody Award for being an outstanding Florida Play Therapist. 

Since 2005, the Florida Association for Play Therapy (FAPT) has honored an outstanding Florida Play Therapist at the FAPT Annual Conference with the Viola Brody Award– established in recognition and in memory of Viola Brody, Ph.D. who is considered a pioneer in play therapy for developing a theoretical approach called Developmental Play Therapy.

“Jane is an outstanding play therapist and, like Dr. Brody, has been a pioneer for her work in bringing play therapy to children and families in Palm Beach County in the 1990s. She has trained thousands of members of the community in play therapy. Jane is a source of knowledge and inspiration, and bar none, she is most deserving of this award,” stated Renée Layman, CEO and president of Center for Child Counseling. 

Robinson founded Palm Beach Gardens-based nonprofit Center for Child Counseling in 1999 as All ‘Bout Children. Although Robinson retired in May 2013, she continues to work as a consultant to Layman and volunteers her time training through the Center’s Institute for Clinical Training and providing support to the clinical supervisors. Robinson founded the organization with the vision of providing free mental health services to the youngest and most vulnerable children in the county. 

As a licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist supervisor, and certified infant mental health specialist through The Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy at Florida State University, Robinson served as a strong advocate for young children in our community. In her leadership role in the area of early childhood mental health, she collaborated with the local community colleges and universities in training students, teachers, and graduate-level mental health counselor/social worker interns in play therapy for the young child (ages birth-5). She has presented to teachers, directors, and supervisors in child development centers and professional, local, and national conferences on mental health for the young child. Robinson created a manual, “Managing Feelings and Behavior in the Classroom and at Home,” which has been updated and is used by the Center as a guide and reference for teachers and parents of young children. She co-authored a chapter titled “Play Therapy Techniques with Very Young At-Risk Children in Child Care Settings” published in the book “Play Therapy with Very Young Children,” edited by Dr. Charles Shaefer. 

“I am humbled to be a recipient of the Viola Brody Award. Early in my career as a play therapist, I found a book, “Dialogue of Touch: Developmental Play Therapy,” by Viola Brody. I read it, took workshops with Viola, and sat with her for a snack at the National Association for Play Therapy Conferences around 1998-2000. Viola’s training gave me insight on how to work with the very youngest (infant to 3 years) and their caregivers in child care centers. Viola gave me the tools needed to model the importance of developmentally-appropriate touch, support, and attachment for the well-being of the very young child and those older who did not receive the care at a young age. I will be forever grateful,” said Robinson.

Criteria to receive the Viola Brody Award include: being a member of FAPT/APT for at least five years; making an outstanding contribution to the field of Play Therapy in the State of Florida, nationally, or internationally; and not being a current FAPT Board Member or a member of the FAPT Award Committee. 

Other recognition that Robinson has received includes: Volunteer of the Year for Play Therapy and Teacher Training by the YMCA of Boca Raton, FL, in 2000; the Mary Bondarin Award for Service to Children and Families by the Association of Education for the Young Child of the Palm Beaches in 2004; a “notable” (person who cares about their community) by the Palm Beach Post in 2005. She was also nominated for the 2011 “Purpose Prize,” a national award for people over 60 who combine their passion and experience for social good. 

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

Click here to view release.

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CFCC Opens New Location in West Palm Beach

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NEWS RELEASE
May 13, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com
561-632-6747

Local Nonprofit Opens New Location to Serve Kids and Families on Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

Center for Child Counseling holds a ribbon cutting for its newest location in West Palm Beach.

Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) has expanded its prevention, education, and mental health services in the heart of West Palm Beach. A ribbon cutting and open house took place on National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, Thursday, May 9, 2024, at the newest space located at the U.B. Kinsey Educational and Community Center in West Palm Beach.

This additional location will be a hub for child and family health in West Palm Beach, along with the other community organizations housed at the U.B. Kinsey facility–Children’s Home Society’s Bridges and FAU Community Health. CFCC’s placement at U.B. Kinsey is a result of FAU Community Health’s community survey which listed mental health services as the number one priority.

Dr. Eugenia Millender, current chair of CFCC’s board of directors and former head of FAU Community Health in Westgate, was part of the initial vision of the new space and shared a few words about the need for this facility in the community.

“One of the things we want to make sure we do is embed mental health services in every community, in every child center, in every community center, in every school,” stated Millender.

She discussed the importance of mental fitness as a way to deal with the hardships of life and the necessity to prepare individuals for what the world will bring–preparing “the mother, the father, the aunt, the grandparent to be able to provide better care for their child, grandchild to become wonderful, beautiful citizens.” 

This new location has allowed CFCC to create two safe spaces–a training room and a family room. The family room is designed as two-dimensional to serve both the child and caregivers. The agency will offer family support groups, infant mental health, circles of security.

“Parents can see live, right here, how to play with their child. They’ll practice together. They will build bonds and connections…we need to bring them together and create safety and connection that’s really going to promote their mental health and wellbeing,” explained CEO and President Renée Layman. 

Layman emphasized the importance of having spaces like these in schools, child care centers, and community centers for children and families as a means for creating positive childhood experiences (PCEs)–the antidote to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). 

According to Dr. Millender, “It was a beautiful vision that we started a long time ago…bringing different organizations under one roof to provide better care for the whole community.”

Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. 

CFCC’s office locations include: Child and Family First Center, 5205 Greenwood Avenue, West Palm Beach; Admin and Child First Office, 8895 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens; Child First Office South, 2328 10th Avenue North, Lake Worth; and U.B. Kinsey Educational and Community Center, 720 8th Street, West Palm Beach. CFCC’s services and therapists are also integrated within schools, childcare centers, and pediatric offices throughout Palm Beach County.

For more information, visit: centerforchildcounseling.org.

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DeSantises Name Local Mother Florida Hero

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NEWS RELEASE
May 2, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com 

DeSantises Name Local Mother Florida Hero:
Bailey Hughes Recognized for Her Selfless Dedication in Delivering Help and Hope to Foster Children and Families 

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis honored Bailey Hughes, executive director and co-founder of local nonprofit The Hands and Feet, as a Florida Hero on Friday, April 26. The DeSantises welcomed heroes from across the state of Florida to the Governor’s Residence to recognize them for their selfless contributions and for exhibiting exceptional courage, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Hughes was one of seventy-five Florida Heroes honored at the ceremony, including first responders, doctors, veterans, law enforcement, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, parents, and innovators who have all exhibited bravery and self-sacrifice. Also honored were members of the community who have dedicated themselves to helping others overcome adversity through nonprofit efforts, adoption and foster care, careers in education, and advocacy.

“This evening it was a privilege to recognize and personally thank each Florida Hero in attendance for their selfless dedication to their communities and our state,” said Governor DeSantis. “In Florida, we want to recognize and extoll the virtues of selflessness and service, and these 75 individuals embodied those virtues through their actions and achievements.”

Hughes is a wife, mother, and former special educator for the Palm Beach County School District. She and her husband fostered 23 children and adopted 4 of those children. 

Before becoming a foster parent in 2016, Hughes was a special education elementary teacher at a Title 1 school in a self-contained Emotional Behavioral Disabilities unit. Working with some of the most vulnerable and hurting children, Hughes saw firsthand how the mental health world for children was desperately lacking. She found success in helping these children by educating herself, watching her peers, and listening to parents who found themselves in the depths of their child’s mental health struggles. She successfully was able to advocate for services, change of school or classroom placement, and assist families over her years as a teacher.

After leaving the classroom in 2018 and in the midst of fostering children, Hughes still found herself advocating on a daily basis. Whether supporting a fellow foster or adoptive family in the trenches with their child, or fighting for her own children, Hughes has seen how much just being a voice for someone in a time of need can mean. She has been a part of a child’s healing from the immense trauma that can sometimes take place in a child’s life–through play therapy, psychiatric services, and community help.

Hughes joined Center for Child Counseling’s Board of Directors in 2020 to help move forward the agency’s mission of promoting positive mental health for children and families and preventing and healing the effects of adverse childhood experiences and trauma. She continues to be an integral member of the board today, often sharing her family’s personal story, including the positive, life-changing, and healing effects the Center had on her children.

In addition to witnessing the deep trauma that children within Palm Beach County face on a daily basis, Hughes also experienced the gap in resources for foster and kinship families. For instance, Hughes knows story after story of infants and children being dropped off at foster families’ doors with nothing but a soiled diaper or dirty clothes–no formula, car seat, crib, shoes…no essentials. These repeated circumstances led Hughes and her sister, Makayla Doolin, to co-found The Hands and Feet in 2021–a nonprofit organization that provides essential items to children and families so that they can know the support of a caring, loving community. The impactful agency brings a sense of comfort to a terrifying situation.

“We strive to be the hands and feet that deliver resources to the most vulnerable children and families in our community because every person should know they are loved and supported despite their circumstances. Consider us doordash for foster care–we deliver nearly everything a child entering, or at risk of entering, foster care needs to cover the gap,” stated Hughes.

The Hands and Feet started out serving Palm Beach County. Today, it also serves the Treasure Coast and Broward County–delivering items such as: clothes, shoes, socks, undergarments, school uniforms and supplies, hygiene items, formula, diapers, wipes, car seats, baby items and gear, cribs and toddler beds, beddings, comfort items, and toys. In less than three years, The Hands and Feet has served more than 5,500 children across six counties in Florida. 

“We are proud tonight to share the goodness of Floridians,” said First Lady DeSantis. “We were glad to highlight the inspiring stories of first responders, community leaders, foster parents, veterans, doctors, and others.”

Hughes, along with the 74 other Florida Heroes, had her change-making story shared during a recognition ceremony and displayed throughout the Governor’s Residence. 

“It was a wild night to be invited to the Governor’s mansion. What an honor!” exclaimed Hughes.

About The Hands and Feet
The Hands and Feet was established in 2021 to deliver help and hope to children and families with an open child welfare case. They deliver nearly everything a child entering, or at risk of entering, foster care needs to cover the gap–from tangible goods, like clothes, shoes, and car seats, to the kind of emotional support only people who have experienced the process can offer. The Hands and Feet acts as an immediate resource for foster families, biological parents, relative caregivers, and aged-out foster youth. For more information, visit: thehandsandfeet.org. 

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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GL Homes Helps Center for Child Counseling Honor Donors and Community Partners at Palm Beach Yacht Club

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases , ,

April 30, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

GL Homes Helps Center for Child Counseling Honor Donors and Community Partners at Palm Beach Yacht Club

GL Homes, a community partner of Center for Child Counseling, hosted an evening celebrating the generosity of other community partners and supporters of the Palm Beach Gardens-based nonprofit on Friday, April 12, 2024, at the Palm Beach Yacht Club. 

Since 1999, Center for Child Counseling has been providing care for children in Palm Beach County. Chief Executive Officer Renée Layman celebrated this milestone 25th anniversary year with friends, partners, and strong advocates for children and families in the county.

“The Center for Child Counseling provides an invaluable mental health service, one that isn’t duplicated. Through play therapy, the caring team of therapists allow children to feel safe, loved, and protected. GL Homes applauds the care and compassion our most vulnerable youth receive from these dedicated professionals,” stated GL Homes Vice President of Community Relations Sarah Alsofrom.

50 guests enjoyed cocktails and food and were the first to hear about the Center’s impact on children and families in 2023 with the reveal of the agency’s annual community impact report. 

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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Pediatric Society Reconvenes for the First Time Since COVID to Discuss How to Integrate Mental Health into Primary Care

Cara Hansen Latest News, News Releases , , , , , ,

April 25, 2024
For immediate release
Media contact: Cara Scarola Hansen
Center for Child Counseling Public Relations Counsel
cara@yourmissionmarketing.com

Pediatric Society Reconvenes for the First Time Since COVID to Discuss How to Integrate Mental Health into Primary Care

Palm Beach Pediatric Society joins Center for Child Counseling in leading the fight in children’s mental health. 

In partnership with the Palm Beach Pediatric Society, the Center for Child Counseling continued its Lead the Fight series to move forward its efforts addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and childhood trauma with the healthcare providers who are on the frontlines of seeing children and families. Part one of a three-part series, The Trauma-Informed Pediatric Practice: We Are the Boots on the Ground, took place April 17, 2024, at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach. 

Led by Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine, president of the Palm Beach Pediatric Society and medical director of Center for Child Counseling, this initial part of the series focused on how pediatric medical professionals can provide pediatric mental health integration by being trauma-informed in their primary care and subspecialty offices.

“When we look at our systems–whether it’s our schools, our legal systems, our department of juvenile justice, our medical system with our pediatricians–you are often the most trusted person in a child’s life, in a family’s life,” stated Renée Layman, president and CEO of Center for Child Counseling, in her opening address to the more than 80 pediatric healthcare providers and community partners in attendance. 

Fox-Levine emphasized that as often the person a parent or family turns to when in crisis, the primary care and subspecialty pediatric providers should be armed with the tools to identify mental health risks. Since physical health and mental health cannot be separated, pediatric medical professionals are at the forefront of the youth mental health crisis. She discussed the impact of childhood trauma into adulthood: from depression, higher risk of suicide, incarceration to the risks of cancer, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases.

“We protect kids, that’s our mission, preventative care to keep them healthy, to keep them from getting those illnesses, like polio. So, we really need to think of that as we leave here tonight…setting that mission for all of us is to think of it more of those effects of trauma on children, what that looks like for that adult. And what the impact of finding those kids now through our recommended screening processes will do for those same adults in the future,” said Fox-Levine.

The presentation provided the practical strategies and toolkit of resources necessary for the healthcare providers to address children’s mental health needs–screening early and connecting children and families to the appropriate care and support offered in Palm Beach County. 

Center for Child Counseling team members–Mackenzie Halley, director of the pediatric integration program, and Jibby Ciric, senior director of strategic impact–provided an overview of adverse childhood experiences and adverse community experiences and how to create a trauma-informed community to support a child’s development and to recognize and stop childhood trauma. 

This event marked the first time in more than four years that the Palm Beach Pediatric society convened. The primary pediatric providers had the opportunity to talk to each other about the mental health crisis that all pediatricians are seeing and offer each other peer support. 

In 2015, Center for Child Counseling launched Fighting ACEs to build awareness and action to mitigate the impact of ACEs and build well-being through Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). In conjunction with Leadership Palm Beach County Class of 2017, the Center developed ‘Lead the Fight’ in 2016 to bring awareness to system leaders around fighting childhood adversity with advocacy and action. Since that time, the agency has educated tens of thousands of parents, professionals, and systems leaders. 

Partnership sponsors who are leading the fight in making these important conversations and educational series possible include: BeWellPBC, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County; Florida Association for Infant Mental Health; Hanley Foundation, Palm Beach Pediatrics, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County, Mead Johnson/Enfamil, and Searcy, Denney, Scarola, Barnhart & Shipley. 

CFCC’s Fighting ACEs initiative to build trauma-informed communities is made possible with the generous support of Quantum Foundation, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and private donors.

CFCC’s pediatric integration program is made possible thanks to the support of Quantum Foundation, The Frederick DeLuca Foundation, and Palm Beach County Community Services Department. 

Part 2 of the Lead the Fight 2024 series, The Superheroes Have Arrived, will take place on August 28. The event focus will be on how Palm Beach County Schools are helping students in mental health crisis with the CAPE Team and other mental health services.

Part 3, Positivity Will Give HOPE for Our Future, is scheduled for December 4, and will feature understanding the effect of Positive Childhood Experiences on countering the long-term possible effect of Adverse Childhood Experiences.

About Center for Child Counseling
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful, and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school, and community relationships. www.centerforchildcounseling.org Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling Instagram: @childcounselpbc

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