The Horizon Line: Stories and Insights into Mental Health, Substance Use, Recovery and Hope

In this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode, we explore the theme “Conversations Across Generations” through an honest discussion about mental health, communication, and connection within families and communities. Featuring Jordan Brooks, Lock and Talk Virginia Coordinator, Debra Jefferson (“GiGi”) and CIT Coordinator at Horizon, along with DJ Best, Desha Best, and Desir Best, this episo...

In this episode, Ryan is joined by a panel of experts to discuss the future of substance use care, emphasizing ethics, innovation, clinical excellence, and personal connection in effective treatment. Key insights include the importance of humility, continuous learning, and the power of human connection in healing. Thank you to our special guests, Dr. Sara Bailey, Dr. Michael King, and Dr. Michael...

In this episode, Ryan interviews Lisa Haibach, Program Manager Clinical Services, Intermediate Care Facilities at Horizon Behavioral Health, about developmental disabilities, focusing on awareness, inclusion, services, and support systems. They explore how community and care providers can foster independence and dignity for individuals with developmental disabilities, emphasizing the importance of...

It’s Youth Mental Health Awareness Month. In this special bonus episode of The Horizon Line , Grant Tomey, Clinical Coordinator of School-Based Services at Horizon Behavioral Health, discusses the growing need for school-based mental health services and how accessible counseling in schools helps students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. We explore: How school-based counseling impro...

Welcome to Season 2 of The Horizon Line! We're kicking off the year with an episode discussing the vital role of case management in mental health and substance use recovery. Ashley Putt shares her experiences as a high needs adult case manager, detailing the various responsibilities and challenges faced in supporting clients. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships wit...

It's time to bust some myths! In this episode of the Horizon Line, we welcome special guests, Janicanne Shane and Sanjana Bhakta from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, alongside Januwaa Davis from Horizon Behavioral Health to discuss common myths surrounding mental health and the importance of Mental Health First Aid. We explore the stigma associated with mental health challenges, the...

In our first-ever video podcast episode of the The Horizon Line , host Ryan Weaks discusses the critical role of the 988 crisis hotline with guests April Dovel, Director of Crisis Services at the VA Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services alongside AJ Harold, Senior Clinical Director at Horizon Behavioral Health. They explore the significance of 988 as a universal entry point...

In this episode of the The Horizon Line , we discuss how individuals can continue to navigate their recovery journey while pregnant or parenting. Host, Ryan Weaks, engages with Rebecca Whitehead, Women & Children Social Worker, and Heather May, Perinatal Nurse Navigator, at Centra, alongside Shiloh Martin, Project Link Coordinator, at Horizon Behavioral Health. This conversation explores the c...

"There's hope people can get better." "My story isn't uncommon." "Where there's breath, there's hope." In this episode of the The Horizon Line , host Ryan Weaks engages with Tonier Cain, a trauma survivor, advocate, and renowned filmmaker, alongside colleagues Rhonda Turner, Outpatient Clinical Coordinator, and Januwaa Davis, Prevention and Wellness Services - Program Manager, at Horizon Behaviora...

On this special episode of The Horizon Line, we focus on men's mental health, exploring the unique challenges men face and the importance of creating safe spaces for discussion. Special guests, Dr. Keith Anderson , a Certified Public Health Professional, Leroy Wingo , a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Bernnell Kindzred , Clinical Coordinator at Horizon, discuss the new Barbershop Talks Initia...

In our second episode of The Horizon Line , we have a deep conversation with Dr. Sara Bailey, Counselor Education Program Director at the University of Lynchburg and a counselor at Full Life Counseling and Recovery, PLLC, alongside Jennifer Smith-Ramey, Director of Grants and Programs at Horizon Behavioral Health , about the unique challenges women face regarding substance use disorders. They expl...

In our inaugural episode of The Horizon Line , Ryan sits down with Kelli Griffiths, Maternal & Infant Program Manager at Centra , and Shiloh Martin, Project Link Coordinator at Horizon Behavioral Health to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by women, particularly in the context of maternal health. Listen in as we highlight the importance of understanding and supporting women thr...

Hey Central Virginia, let’s talk about our community. Every day new information, opportunities and conversations around behavioral health are happening here in Central Virginia, and it can be hard to keep up. The Horizon Line is here to help. What even is behavioral health? We're glad you asked. Welcome to The Horizon Line. A podcast brought to you by Horizon Behavioral Health, dedicated to sh...