Stigma Stompers with NAMI of Erie

In this moving episode, we talk with Amanda Cox, Medical Advocate and Program Manager at Safe Journey, about the deep and last impact of domestic violence on mental health. Amanda shares her journey into advocacy, the common challenges survivors face, and the critical importance of trauma-informed healthcare responses. We explore how domestic violence trauma can differ from other types of trauma, how friends and family can offer sa...

Music is more than just a backdrop to our lives—it can be a lifeline. In this episode of Stigma Stompers, we sit down with Cindy Legwaila, a board-certified music therapist based in Erie, to explore how music becomes a powerful tool for healing, connection, and emotional expression.

Cindy shares how she uses a person-centered approach to support individuals of all ages—from children to those in hospice care—through the transformati...

When Taylor Miller lost her life to a fentanyl overdose in 2021, her parents turned their grief into action. Inspired by the HOPE program Taylor had created during her own recovery journey, they founded Taylor’s HOPE to continue her mission of supporting those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. In this episode, Taylor’s parents share their story—who Taylor was, how they transformed their loss into advocacy, and...

When someone is in the midst of a mental health crisis, where can they turn for immediate, compassionate support? In this episode, we talk with Sharon Sandberg, LCSW and Program Manager at the Crisis Residential Unit (CRU), about how CRU provides short-term, stabilizing care for individuals facing serious mental health challenges—including those with suicidal thoughts.

Sharon explains what makes CRU different from other crisis servi...

In this important episode, we talk with Leanne Hapt and Pati Patlos about the growing challenges teens face around mental health and substance misuse. Leanne and Pati share insights from their work in school-based Student Assistance Programs (SAP) and adolescent treatment services at Pyramid Healthcare. We explore current trends in teen substance use, the deep connection between mental health struggles and substance misuse, and the...

After the heartbreaking loss of their wife and mother, Debra Mattson, to suicide, Ed Mattson and his children chose to turn their pain into purpose. In this moving episode, Ed and one his daughters, Gillian, share the story of Debby—her warmth, her impact, and the legacy they’ve created in her honor through the Debra Mattson Memorial Foundation. They discuss how the annual memorial walk has become both a tribute and a tool for heal...

What does it take to support the mental health of our youngest community members? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Adrienne Dixon, President & CEO of Sarah A. Reed Children’s Center. With over 30 years of experience in counseling and leadership, Dr. Dixon shares insights into the evolving landscape of children’s mental health—especially in schools.

We explore early intervention, trauma-informed care, the role of pa...

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Tobin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and author, to explore the intersection of personal experience, professional practice, and storytelling in mental health. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, our guest shares insights on universal struggles, overcoming stigma, and the importance of seeking help. We also dive into her novel Home for the Bewildered, a fictionalized look a...

In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Ally and Reagan, former occupational therapy interns who helped facilitate NAMI Erie County’s Exploring the Arts program. They share what drew them to the field of occupational therapy, how art supports emotional regulation in children, and the unique ways they integrated therapeutic principles into fun and meaningful activities. From favorite moments with the kids to lessons learned a...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Savannah Jakubowski and Christina Salvia to explore the intersection of identity, community, and mental health. Savannah and Christina share their personal journeys in understanding their sexual orientation and the impact it’s had on their mental well-being. We dive into common mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, the critical role of supportive spaces like Compton’s Tab...

In this emotional episode, Gina DiGello courageously shares her brother’s journey with suicide and her mission to keep the conversation going. Having lost him less than a year ago, Gina talks about warning signs to look out for, the importance of seeking help, and available resources for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Join us for an important and moving discussion aimed at raising awareness and preventing further tragedie...

Trauma doesn’t just affect the mind—it’s stored in the body. In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Berceli, a trauma-focused care expert specializing in Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE). Kevin shares his personal journey, explains how TRE helps the body release trauma, and compares it to other therapies like EMDR and talk therapy.

We also discuss common misconceptions about trauma, how it manifests in everyday life, ...

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Kyle Hedderick to hear his raw and inspiring story of resilience. From enduring abuse and battling addiction to confronting his mental health struggles, Kyle opens up about the darkest moments of his life and the turning points that led him to sobriety. Now dedicated to helping others facing similar challenges, Kyle's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and hope. Don't mi...

Mental health doesn’t clock out when the workday begins. In this episode, we’re diving into how local employers are stepping up to support the mental well-being of their teams. We sat down with Matt Zinna from McGill, Power, and Bell; Stacey Bruce and Stephen Buttaccio from Marquette Savings Bank; and Andrew Dylewski and Jayme Turos from Erie Insurance to talk about why workplace mental health matters, how their organizations are t...

Art has the power to heal, but how does it work in therapy? In this episode, we sit down with Shelby Neal, a registered art therapist at Stairways Behavioral Health, to explore the transformative world of art therapy. Shelby shares her journey into the field, explains how art therapy differs from traditional talk therapy, and breaks down its benefits for mental health.
We also dive into unique techniques like reverse coloring, creat...

In this in-depth episode, Stacey Buettner, Director of Crisis Services at UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor, walks us through the essential steps to take when facing a mental health crisis. She covers the differences between a mental health crisis and a psychotic episode, how to recognize warning signs, and what to do in a crisis. Stacey also discusses available resources and how crisis services work with hospitals, law...