Healthy Connections
Evolve Behavioral Health Services
My Kids Pediatric Clinic
West Central Health Clinic
Health For Life Clinic
Noydeen Midtown
Healthy Connections
Evolve Behavioral Health Services
My Kids Pediatric Clinic
West Central Health Clinic
Health For Life Clinic
Noydeen Midtown
Evolve Behavioral Health Services

February Employees of the Month

Healthy Connections is proud to announce our February 2024 Employees of the Month: Charlotte Craig from our West Communities and Andrea Pilcher from our East Communities.

These recognitions are a testament to their outstanding contributions and embodiment of our core values: Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Each month, we celebrate team members who exemplify these principles, making a significant impact in their roles and in the lives of those we serve.

Charlotte Craig, a billing specialist who has been with Healthy Connections since 2017, works remotely to ensure the seamless operation of our financial services. Charlotte’s role is critical in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of our billing processes, directly affecting our ability to care for patients and support our staff. A colleague’s nomination praised her, stating, “Charlotte is extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help anyone. She is so kind and good-hearted, truly wanting the best for our patients and coworkers. She strives to ensure that our patients are taken care of in a timely manner, demonstrating her commitment to compassion and excellence in every task she undertakes.”

Andrea Pilcher, our East Communities winner, has been a pivotal part of Healthy Connections since 2016, serving as a Clinical Territory Lead at the Hot Springs Central clinic. Andrea’s role is instrumental in mentoring new nurses and providers, ensuring they receive top-notch training and support. Her dedication to excellence is evident in the way she goes above and beyond for her team, as highlighted by a coworker: “She provides excellent training and has ensured that both nurses and providers’ onboarding experience and training are of the highest quality.” Andrea’s efforts significantly enhance our clinical operations, contributing to the overall health and well-being of our communities.

We are delighted to honor Charlotte Craig and Andrea Pilcher for their exceptional contributions to Healthy Connections. Their dedication to our pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence not only strengthens our team but also inspires others to achieve their best. Congratulations to both Charlotte and Andrea on this well-deserved recognition.

Martin Returns To De Queen Clinic

Healthy Connections is thrilled to welcome back experienced Family Nurse Practitioner Angela Martin, APRN, to our healthcare team at the De Queen clinic.
Angela is now accepting patients at the De Queen clinic, conveniently located at 1206 W. Collin Raye Drive. Schedule primary care/family medicine appointments by calling 888-710-8220.
With more than 30 years of nursing experience and 13 years as a nurse practitioner, she is deeply rooted in De Queen, having called it home for more than two decades. Angela previously worked at Healthy Connections. Other area locales included the Martin Family Medical Clinic and De Queen Medical Center.
“We are thrilled to have Angela back with us at Healthy Connections in De Queen. Her unwavering commitment to community healthcare perfectly aligns with our mission, and her expertise will undoubtedly benefit our patients,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.
In her family practice clinic, Angela is dedicated to caring for patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. Healthy Connections De Queen operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, offering services to both pediatric and family medicine patients. Other providers at this location include Carolin Hockersmith, APRN, and Inja Brown, APRN.
As a family nurse practitioner, she brings specialized educational and clinical training to family practice, with a strong focus on long-term health and wellness, particularly emphasizing preventive care.
“When I was an ER nurse, I often saw patients who didn’t need to be in the ER. They needed care in a clinic setting. At the time, there weren’t many providers in De Queen, and I simply wanted to be there to help people,” Angela said of her initial journey to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Healthy Connections, a nonprofit organization based in Mena, has been serving the healthcare needs of children and adults throughout West-Central Arkansas since its establishment in 1998. From its humble beginnings as a home-visiting program, Healthy Connections has grown to offer essential health and dental services to families from diverse backgrounds.
For those seeking quality healthcare from Angela, please call (888) 710-8220 to schedule an appointment and experience the excellence of care she brings to the De Queen community.

Larner Named Evolve BHS Director

Heath Larner, LPC, has been appointed as the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health Services at Evolve Behavioral Health Services, a vital component of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. This announcement underscores Heath’s dedication to the three core pillars of Healthy Connections: Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Larner’s career trajectory is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the field of mental health. He began his journey with a psychology degree from the University of Central Florida and explored diverse professional avenues, including running his cleaning business. However, his true calling beckoned, leading him to pursue a career in therapy.

In 2022, Larner transitioned to Evolve Behavioral Health Services, enriching the team with his extensive experience and unique perspective.

Heath’s professional journey took an unconventional path as he embarked on graduate studies at Central Arkansas at the age of 37. By the age of 40, he had earned his degree, embarking on a fulfilling career as a therapist. His distinctive life experience equips him with a remarkable outlook when helping individuals on their mental health journeys.

Larner’s therapeutic approach embraces individuals of various age groups, with a particular affinity for those old enough to engage in cognitive processes, starting from age 9 and beyond. He employs cognitive behavioral therapy as his primary therapeutic modality, complemented by insights drawn from his background as a preacher. This holistic approach fosters compassion and facilitates healing.

“I’m really big on what we think we’ve become. I spend a lot of time trying to get people to think the right way about themselves, about others, about life in general,” Larner said. “And as we improve our thoughts and our thoughts get healthier, our perspective gets healthier.”

Evolve Behavioral Health Services plays a crucial role within the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, collaborating seamlessly with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care. This partnership allows Evolve to provide individual, family, and group mental health therapy, in addition to medication management by Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP), all within the state of Arkansas.

“Heath’s dedication to improving mental health aligns perfectly with the mission of Evolve and Healthy Connections,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. “We are proud to have him as part of our team and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make in our community.”

To learn more about Evolve Behavioral Health Services, please visit their website at www.evolvebhs.com. Individuals seeking mental health support are encouraged to reach out without hesitation. Appointments with Evolve can be scheduled by calling 800-409-6250.

Evolve Behavioral Health Services and Healthy Connections share a common vision—to promote mental well-being and improve the lives of individuals in our community. Their partnership strengthens their ability to provide the highest quality of care, reflecting their dedication to a healthier and happier society.

About Heath Larner, LPC

Heath Larner, LPC, is the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health Services at Evolve Behavioral Health Services, part of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. With a unique journey to the field of mental health, Heath is dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental well-being through cognitive behavioral therapy and compassionate care.

About Evolve Behavioral Health Services

Evolve Behavioral Health Services is committed to delivering comprehensive mental health therapy and medication management within the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. Their mission is rooted in the values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence, providing individuals with the tools to lead healthier and happier lives.

About Healthy Connections Community Health Network

Healthy Connections Community Health Network is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations throughout Western and Central Arkansas. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Healthy Connections offers quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services, anchored in the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Take Care of Yourself on Self-Care Day

National Self-Care Day is a day dedicated to reminding us all of the importance of taking care of ourselves and our mental well-being. At Evolve Behavioral Health Services, we understand that self-care is an integral part of maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. On this special day, we invite you to join us in celebrating the power of self-care and explore how our comprehensive mental health services can support you on your journey to improved well-being.

What is National Self-Care Day?

National Self-Care Day, observed on July 24, serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care and mental health. Amidst the fast-paced and often stressful nature of modern life, it is crucial to set aside time to nurture ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally. It is a day to reflect on our individual needs and engage in activities that promote relaxation, joy, and inner peace.

Why Self-Care Matters

Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Taking care of your mental health is vital for overall wellness, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength. Engaging in self-care practices can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, enhance self-esteem, and foster better relationships with others. It is an investment in your well-being that yields long-term benefits.

Discover Evolve Behavioral Health Services

At Evolve Behavioral Health Services, we are dedicated to providing exceptional mental health support to individuals seeking a path to personal growth and improved mental wellness. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals offers a range of services designed to meet your unique needs:

1. Individual Therapy:
Personalized one-on-one counseling sessions provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. Our therapists employ evidence-based approaches to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns.

2. Group Therapy:
Connect with others who may be experiencing similar struggles in a nurturing group setting. Group therapy offers the opportunity to share experiences, gain insights, and build a strong support network.

3. Mindfulness and Stress Management:
Learn valuable techniques to manage stress and incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. These practices can help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness and inner peace.

4. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Our therapists utilize CBT techniques to assist you in recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns, fostering positive behavioral changes, and improving coping skills.

5. Teletherapy:
For your convenience and privacy, we offer teletherapy sessions, allowing you to receive quality care from the comfort of your own home.

How to Get Started

Taking the first step towards prioritizing your mental health is commendable, and we are here to support you throughout your journey. To learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with one of our caring therapists, please visit our website www.evolvebhs.com or call us at 800-409-6250.

Conclusion

As we celebrate National Self-Care Day, let us be reminded of the importance of nurturing our mental well-being. At Evolve Behavioral Health Services, we are committed to helping you embrace self-care and empowering you to lead a more fulfilling life. Take the leap and invest in yourself—your mental health matters, and we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Happy National Self-Care Day!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

National Social Work Month

Healthy Connections Community Health Network and Evolve Behavioral Health and Medication Management is helping celebrate this year’s Social Work Month in March with the theme “The Time is Right for Social Work” to highlight how social workers have enriched our society for more than a century and how their services continue be needed today.

The annual Social Work Month campaign is a time to show our appreciation for and to inform public, policymakers, and legislators about the services social workers provide in an array of sectors, including our community health centers.

There are almost 720,000 professional social workers in our nation, but that number is expected to rise to more than 800,000 by 2030, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said. Social workers have helped drive significant, positive changes in our nation. Social workers such as social reformer Jane Addams, former Labor Secretary Frances Perkins, and civil rights leaders Dorothy Height, Whitney Young and Ida B. Wells have pushed for voting rights, equal rights, Social Security, unemployment insurance, and other programs.

Social workers touch millions of lives each day and it is likely a social worker at some time will assist you, a family member, or a friend. For example, are you a student who needs athletic shoes to participate in sports, but your parents can’t afford to buy them? Talk to your school social worker. They can help you find the resources you need. Do you want a better relationship with your spouse, partner, children, or parents? A social worker can help you forge stronger connections.

Are you living with depression, anxiety, or a substance use disorder? A social worker can help you overcome them and thrive. At Evolve, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) provide individual family, and group mental-health therapy in our communities.

Visit www.evolvebhs.com to learn more about our social workers and the services they provide.

Mental Health Just As Important

Remember: your mental health is equally important as your physical health!!

Have you ever needed a mental break or stress reliever, but didn’t know what to do? Here are some of our favorite ways to calm our minds and de-stress!.

Digital Detox

Spending hours scrolling through social media can be detrimental to our mental health, even if we don’t realize it. Take a break from the mindless scrolling for the evening or day.

Practice mindfulness

Becoming more mindful allows us to become aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without becoming overwhelmed. Find a quiet spot where you can sit alone for just a few minutes. Follow the sensation of your breath as it goes in and out. When you notice your mind has begun to wander, return your attention to your breathing.

Gratitude

It’s easy to go throughout the day focusing on the negatives rather than the positives. At the end of the day or week, reflect on the highs and positives you experienced. Keep a journal to write them in, or simply think about them as you drift off to sleep.

Self-care

Take a hot bath, go for a walk, cook your favorite dinner, or simply go outside for some fresh air. Be sure you are taking time to relax and nourish your mind.

Evolve Behavioral Health and Medication Management offers individual (adults and children), family, and group counseling at locations in Little Rock, Malvern, Arkadelphia, Hot Springs, Mount Ida, and Mena. Call 800-409-6250 for appointments. Visit www.evolvebhs.com for more information.