Written By: Jennifer Rose O’Shay a.k.a J.R.O’Shay, MAED. As a young girl, I spent many days exercising the depths of my imagination. With a ton of energy and spirit, I would engage in plays that took me on adventures across the world. This was my escape from reality. My name is Jennifer O’Shay. I am an Early Head Start Teacher at Starfish Family Services. I have my master’s degree in early childhood education and School Leadership in the 21st Century. I have dedicated most of the past 17 years to building my career in Early Childhood Education. I am also a multi-media artist and work in photography, writing, illustrating (with a variety of materials), crochet, face painting, and… whatever I want to try. My background is full of a lot of childhood trauma and negativity. Many of my family members were plagued with mental health illness and addiction. When I was around 3 years of age, my father became a victim of the drug pandemic taking over society during the early 80s. In an … [Read more...]
Starfish calls for support of Telehealth
The Detroit News - Op-Ed published, August 27, 2023 Author: Marisa Nicely - Chief Program Officer at Starfish Family Services In recent years, Michigan, like much of the country, has grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the most pressing challenges is the strain on our state's public mental health system, which was already stretched thin before the pandemic hit. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, the emergence of telehealth has provided a vital support system for countless Michiganians. Telehealth has bridged gaps in care, allowing mental health professionals to connect with those in need. Recent data shows that its effectiveness is undeniable. Especially for residents in rural areas and those facing transportation challenges. It also stands as a testament to our capacity for innovation. And it has ensured that critical services remain accessible to those who need them most. However, the state sees things differently. … [Read more...]
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
The Week of May 7, 2023: Starfish Family Services joins with other providers and families across the nation to lift up Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day & Month! Good mental health is an essential part of the health development of any child. Today, 1 in 5 children struggle with mental health or a learning disorder. At Starfish we support children and families to heal – as well as – build skills and resilience to focus on overall wellness. Building a strong foundation of self-fare and positive coping skills help children, youth, and families stive for mental, emotional, and physical health. Early discovery, diagnosis, and appropriate services for children, youth, and their families make a lasting difference in the health outcomes for everyone. Starfish provides in-person, home-based, and telehealth options with trained mental health professionals. To connect to our Behavioral Health Team directly --- call 800-355-5433. Additional learning resources: … [Read more...]
A Note from our CEO, Roxanne Brinkerhoff: Tragedy at Michigan State University
February 14, 2023: Heartbreak for families & our communities - Time to support one another. Dear Starfish Family, Today – Valentine’s Day – is usually about sharing love and kindness. Yet today my heart is broken rather than celebrating. Yesterday, a shooting at Michigan State University took the lives of three people and left five people injured. This awful and jarring event being so close to home means that we may know someone who was directly impacted or see that there is greater impact to those around us. I also know that MSU is place so many in our broader Starfish family have powerful connections and memories. This is a horrific tragedy for every family, young person, child, or member of the campus community that has been impacted. Our condolences go out to families and friends who are navigating the unimaginable. Our children – all ages – should not have to live in fear when they go to school or off to college. Any space of learning and exploration … [Read more...]
Talking to children about racialized violence: Tips & Support from Starfish behavioral health and DEI experts
Racialized violence can be scary and confusing for kids. The recent murder of Tyre Nichols and following media coverage and exposure may have the children in your life asking questions or feeling powerful emotions. As caregivers it's important for us to talk with our children to help them process their feelings and what happened, but how can we do that if we feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable ourselves? Check out some helpful tips to help you feel prepared and in control of your emotions when talking with kids about racialized violence. … [Read more...]
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