Pine Rest Mission Statement
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is called to express the healing ministry of Jesus Christ by providing behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity and compassion.

The Path to Addiction

By Melissa A. Garland

One of the startling realities of substance abuse is how common it can be. For example, ninety-five percent of alcoholics have jobs. "A person struggling with addictions – be it alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal 'street' drugs – can be anybody," said Carolyn Avery, MPA, director of addiction services. "Addiction is not specific to any one type of person, profession, gender, race or economic position."

Substance use begins with experimentation - to find out what it's like. The person chooses to use drugs and/or alcohol based on peer pressure, social reasons or perhaps to mask another problem. "Some are seeking to self-medicate to mask anxiety and stress," added Avery. The person will get a "rush" or "high."

But when does experimentation become an addiction? "The more one experiments with drugs, the more they use. The drug eventually loses its affect to create that 'rush' and 'high' and therefore the individual needs to increase the amount of their drug of choice to get the desired effect," said Avery.

When the person's use of drugs and/or alcohol becomes abusive, it is categorized as a "disorder," meaning the pattern of use begins to cause problems in life. These problems may include increased school or work absenteeism, decreased school or job performance, high risk behaviors such as driving or using heavy machinery while under the influence, legal problems, and problems with family or friends.

The path to recovery can be made easier with Pine Rest's comprehensive substance abuse program. For persons needing sub-acute detoxification services, call 616/222-4852. To reach an outpatient clinician for individuals needing substance abuse treatment, call 866/457-6363. Most insurances accepted.

Newest Outpatient Location Serves Communities in the East

By Melissa A. Garland

Nestled along a quiet highway that winds its way through central Michigan farmland is Pine Rest's newest outpatient location in Lake Odessa. "I began seeing individuals here in October. We are providing a whole realm of mental health services to the area that was never here before," said Grey Larison, PhD, clinical psychologist.

The Lake Odessa office is the easternmost Pine Rest outpatient location to date, and notable in the potential it has to reach a broad audience. "Rural areas are traditionally underserved, especially in mental health care," said Larison. "By being here, we can serve farm communities in the south, Ionia to the north, and to Lansing in the east."

Sensing a need for mental health care in their community, doctors at Lakewood Family Health Care requested Pine Rest's presence and in Larison, found a doctor whose passion is for the people who populate the countryside. "I grew up in the upstate New York country and have always been interested in rural medical practice. I like that we were invited to be here and personally enjoy being a part of a medical practice. It's the interplay of mental and physical health, a holistic approach to care."

It is that approach, as well a Christian mission that makes Pine Rest unique to the area. "When you look in the Lansing phone directory, you are not likely to find many Christian counselors. Wherever we go, we extend the ministry."

Pine Rest Lake Odessa Office
Lakewood Family Health Care Building
4294 Laurel Drive
Lake Odessa, MI 48849

Thursdays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; open to 6 p.m. by appointment.
Phone: 616|891-8770 or 800|678-1279.

Living the Mission

By Sean Myers

Patricia Schut's life has always been accompanied by music. One might say her life is a musical journey, accompanied by family and conducted by God. Schut is a Chaplain at Pine Rest. This former Farm Bureau talent contest winner always loved being involved with music. Her musical background fits well in her working environment with persons having developmental disabilities and adults who are dealing with dementia. The music she strums on her guitar and plays on her piano soothes the emotions and brings out the positive light on the sometimes dark spots of the soul for adults with dementia and persons with developmental disabilities.

With dementia, the music triggers experiences from the past, allowing them to reconnect with past experiences. It can brighten the somewhat depressing and frustrating days that are unfortunately involved with dementia residents. In their world, where clear thoughts are jumbled, residents and clients can remember words when a familiar hymn or song is played. Music acts as an outlet for expression and interaction for the persons with developmental disabilities. They know when they see Chaplain Schut, it is music time. This allows them to participate vocally or instrumentally with bells.

"Music is an integral part of life from birth to death as lullabies, hymns and songs flood our lives and fill our souls," said Chaplain Schut. "Today we have many diverse outlets for music, but music continues to be a rich, expressive and significant part of our culture and our life."

Pine Rest Announcements

By Melissa A. Garland

Michael Fusillo, .M.D.
Michael Fusillo, M.D. has joined Pine Rest’s Adult Psychiatric Services as an inpatient staff psychiatrist, treating persons with serious mental illness, requiring hospitalization. Areas of specialty include severe depression, bi-polar disorder, dissociative disorders, grief issues, sexual abuse and other mental health crisis. Dr. Fusillo obtained his medical degree from the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center and a psychiatry degree from the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.

Dr. Fusillo was most recently Chief of Psychiatry at Allegan General Hospital, administrating a nine-bed psychiatric unit.

Those interested in contacting Dr. Fusillo should call 616/281-6357.

February 19
'Religion and Spirituality in Psychological Care: A Foundation for Practice'
Pine Rest Institute for Spiritual Care Lecture Series presentation on February 19 featuring Edward Shafranske, Ph.D., ABPP.
The lecture will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Gerald and Jane-Ann Postma Center for Worship and Education on Pine Rest’s main campus, 300 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids. For more information or to register, interested persons should call 616|455-5279.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

March 1, 8, 15
Secrets for Successful Marriage
Pre-marital workshop taught by experienced marriage professionals for couples who want to grow their relationship in preparation for marriage. Because it is skill-based, it is a valuable addition to traditional pastoral or professional premarital counseling. 9 a.m. to noon. Cost: $95/couple. Call 616/455-5279 for more information.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

March 5, 12, 19, 26
Eating Disorders Educational Support Group
Ongoing free, confidential group geared for persons with diagnosed eating disorders who are also receiving treatment from a health professional. 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Pine Rest Northeast Clinic, 1700 East Beltline, NE, Suite 240. Cost: Free. Facilitated by Michelle Muenzenmeyer, MA, LLP. An assessment or referral is required prior to joining the group. To schedule an assessment or for more information, call 616/364-1500.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

February 8, 15, 22
'Make a Difference Today'
A three-week educational program for those whose lives are out of control because of someone else’s substance abuse problem and want to learn how to motivate others to seek treatment for alcohol and drug abuse. It will be held from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. on February 8, 15 and 22, at the Pine Rest Holland Clinic, 925 S. Washington, Suite 210, Holland. It is facilitated by Jude Vereyken, MSW, LMSW, CAAC. Cost of the class is $30, plus purchase price of the textbook “Get Your Loved One Sober” by Robert Meyers and Brenda Wolfe. Payment is due at time of registration and seating is limited. For more information or to register, interested persons should call 616/820-3780.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

February 13
'Together We Can' Become More Effective Parents
Part of the Traverse City Clinic “Together We Can” series. The class will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on February 13 at the Pine Rest Traverse City Clinic, 1050 Silver Drive, Traverse City. It is facilitated by Erika Solomonson, MSW, LMSW, and Jerry O’Hearn, LLPC, MA, NCC. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required as seating is limited. For more information or to register, interested persons should call 231/947-2255.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

March 6, 13, 20, 27
Anger Management Classes for Adults
Pine Rest Mercy-Muskegon Clinic will be hosting an Adult Anger Management Class beginning on March 6. Sheila Wilkinson, MA, LLP, LPC, of the Muskegon Clinic will lead the class.
The class will be held from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. over the course of four consecutive Thursday evenings at Pine Rest Mercy-Muskegon Clinic, 1150 East Sherman Blvd, Suite 2100, Muskegon (located within Mercy General Health Pavilion -- Sherman Campus). Session dates are March 6, 13, 20, and 27. The class is geared towards adults and older teens (aged 17 and older) and is open to both men and women.
Participants may attend alone or bring another family member. The cost of $80 for individuals and $120 for two family members is due by the first class. This class is open to anyone. Participants do not have to be Pine Rest patients. Since space may be limited, it is recommended that interested persons register early. For more information or to register for this class, call 231/733-2909.
Additional information is available on the Pine Rest Website.

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Disclaimer

Copyright © 2007, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. All rights reserved. The contents of Mental Health News & Information are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.